Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy to reduce muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. But some medicines can have undesirable side effects and could pose safety risks, especially when used for long periods of time.

Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can improve mobility and reduce pain. It can also help reduce seizures which can be life-threatening for those who suffer from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral dysplasia is a category of nonprogressive disorders that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the arms and legs. The condition is typically diagnosed in the early stages of infanthood or during infancy. It is caused by brain damage or abnormalities. The injury may have occurred while the baby was still in the womb or shortly after birth, but doctors aren't always able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The first step in making an accurate diagnosis of CP is the doctor who treats your child to examine him or her. The doctor will evaluate the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also observe the baby's development over time to determine whether he or she is meeting milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, they may order an imaging test. An MRI is the most commonly used test, which utilizes magnetic fields and creates clear images of your baby's brain. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain that are related to CP. Another alternative is an ultrasound which makes use of sound waves to make images of your child's brain and other organs. This test is easier for very young infants however it may not be as effective in detecting issues related to CP.

In addition to an MRI or ultrasound, your doctor may recommend your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics or pediatric physiatrists (doctors who have specialized training in spinal disorders for children and muscles, nerves, or muscles). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and devise a plan of treatment for your child.

Treatment

Each child has a different CP, and each requires a unique treatment plan. Your family will likely work with a team of specialists which include a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and child developmental specialist. The experts will form a treatment team that includes your family members and supervise the progress of your child.

Doctors can diagnose CP in light of your child's symptoms, and their medical history. They can also conduct a physical examination to determine if there are symptoms and signs of the condition, Cerebral Palsy like muscle tightness or weakness as well as difficulty walking or moving and speech, difficulties with intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors might be able to identify that your child has CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child was born in the breech position or has a difficult labor and delivery or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to develop CP. Babies who are smaller than their gestational age also face higher risks. The risk of cerebral palsy may be increased by complications during labor and delivery. This includes infections, high fevers, and other conditions that hinder the flow of oxygen to the brain.

Medications can help improve your child's movement and reduce stiffness and pain in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles, or infused into the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. They can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions like epilepsy, which are commonly associated with cerebral paralysis.

Preventing CP

You can reduce the chance of CP by taking steps to lower your genetic risk. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal care. Take care of any health issues prior to pregnancy. Also, be up to date on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections -- like cytomegalovirus and rubella are associated with an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies with CP may be slow to learn how to sit, crawl and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia), which causes them to appear stiff or floppy. It is possible that they have high muscle tone (hypertonia) which makes their bodies appear rigid or stiff. They may be inclined to favor one side of the body or exhibit signs of speech problems or seizures.

Around 75 percent of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Some people have only one or two muscles affected, while others suffer from severe spasticity that affects the entire body, including their mouth and face. This type of CP, called spastic hemiplegia can result in a curved back (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another common type of CP is dyskinetic CP that results in movements that are slow and twisty, or fast and quick and jerky. It could make your limbs or face look like they're moving around, and you may drool. Some people who suffer from CP might have more than one form of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

cerebral palsy lawsuit Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Some people with CP require little assistance, and others have trouble getting around and require wheelchairs. Extreme cases of CP could lead to total body paralysis, also known as spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP may benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their posture, balance and movement. They may also require surgery to correct problems with their joints or bones. Hearing loss fatigue, pain, fatigue and excessive drooling are all possible signs. Some people with CP suffer from depression which is more common in the CP population than in the general population.

Many people with CP reside in their homes, participate in community activities, and receive personal assistance. Some may require accommodations, but they can find employment. Those with CP typically experience premature ageing due to their bodies struggling to handle the extra stress and strain.

Even with severe symptoms, those suffering from CP is able to live an enjoyable and fulfilling life. They can have a family, friends and even a job. They can also join support groups, which can allow them to connect with other people suffering from CP and locate local resources. Many foundations and organizations offer financial assistance to families in order to alleviate the burden so that they can concentrate on receiving quality care. You could be eligible to compensation if medical negligence of a healthcare professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Find out if you're eligible for a free review of your case today.