Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications help people suffering from cerebral palsy decrease muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. However, some medications may cause undesirable side effects and could present safety risks, particularly when used over a long period of time.

Surgery isn't a cure for CP however it can to improve mobility and decrease pain. It can also decrease seizures, which can be life-threatening for those with CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a group of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement which includes the muscles of the legs and arms. The condition is usually diagnosed in the early years of childhood or in infancy and is caused by brain injuries or abnormalities. The injury could occur while the infant was in the womb or shortly after birth, although doctors do not always know the exact cause.

The first step in making diagnosing CP is for your child's physician to examine him or her. The doctor will test the baby's muscle tone, reflexes and movements. They will also observe the development of your baby over time to see if he or she is reaching milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is wrong, he may request an imaging test. An MRI is the most commonly used test, which uses magnetic fields to create clear images of your baby's brain. The MRI will detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of your baby's brain and other organs. This test is more convenient for infants who are still very young however, it may not be as helpful at diagnosing issues that are associated with CP.

A doctor could send your child, addition to an MRI or CT scan, to a child physiatrist (a specialist doctor who has been trained in pediatric diseases that affect the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists can assist in providing a more precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Each child has a different CP and requires a unique plan of care. Your family could work with the help of neurosurgeons and pediatric neurologists along with physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. These experts will form a treatment team that includes your family and oversee the progress of your child.

Doctors are able to diagnose CP by looking at your child's symptoms and their medical background. They can also conduct a physical examination to check for indications of the condition. These include muscle tightness and weakness in walking and moving speech and intellectual issues and abnormal reflexes.

Doctors may be able determine that your child is suffering from CP if certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child was born in the breech position, or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to suffer from CP. Babies who are small for their gestational years also face higher risks. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and delivery. This includes infections, high fevers and other conditions which affect the flow of oxygen to brain.

The medicines can help your child improve their mobility and reduce stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be taken through the mouth or injected into muscles or inject into the fluid around the spinal cord. The drugs can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions like epilepsy which are commonly associated with cerebral Palsy lawyers paralysis.

Preventing CP

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

Babies with CP may be slow to learn to sit, crawl and walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia) which makes them appear sloppy or relaxed. Or they might have high muscle tone (hypertonia) which causes their bodies to appear stiff or rigid. They could show signs of speech difficulties or seizures or favor one side of their body.

Around 75% of those who suffer from CP have spastic CP, which makes muscles tight and stiff. Some have only a few affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects their entire muscles which include those around their face and mouth. This type of CP known as spastic hemoplegia can lead to a curving back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing.

Another form of CP is dyskinetic CP that causes movements that are slow and twisty as well as quick and fast and jerky. You might get a drool, and your limbs or face may appear to be writhing. Some people with CP might have more than one type of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be severe or mild. Some individuals with CP require only minimal assistance, while others struggle to move and must use a wheelchair. A severe case can result in a total body paralysis known as spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP might benefit from speech, physical and occupational therapy to improve their posture, balance and movement. They may also require surgery to correct issues with their bones or joints. They can experience hearing loss, fatigue and pain along with excessive drooling and difficulty feeling sensations. Some people with CP suffer from depression which is more common in the CP population than in the general population.

Many people with CP live at home, engage in community activities and have personal assistance. They can also find jobs, though some may need to adjust their schedules. Those with CP often face premature aging as their bodies struggle to deal with stress and strain.

A person with CP can live a fulfilling life, even with severe symptoms. They may have family, friends and a career. They can also join support groups which can allow them to connect with others suffering from CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is available through foundations and organizations to ease the burden on families so that they can concentrate on obtaining quality treatment. You could be eligible for compensation if the medical negligence of a medical professional caused your child's cerebral paralysis. Take advantage of a free case review now to find out if qualify.