The History Of Cerebral Palsy Lawyers In 10 Milestones

Medications For Cerebral Palsy

Many medications can help people who suffer from cerebral paralysis decrease muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. However, some medications may cause unwelcome side effects and can present safety risks, particularly when used over a long period of time.

Surgery isn't a solution for CP however it can improve mobility and lessen pain. It can also help reduce seizures, which are life-threatening for people suffering from CP.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a collection of non-progressive diseases that affect posture, movement and the muscles of the arms or legs. The condition can be seen in infancy or in the early years of childhood and is caused by abnormalities or damage inside the brain. The injury could have occurred during the womb, or shortly after the birth of the baby. However, doctors might not be able to pinpoint the exact reason behind the condition.

cerebral palsy attorney new rochelle  will examine your child to determine if he or she has CP. The doctor will administer the baby a test to check the strength of his or her muscles and reflexes as well as movements. They will also monitor your baby's progress over time to determine if he is meeting milestones.

If the doctor suspects that something is not right, he could order an imaging test. An MRI is the most commonly used test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce detailed images of your child's brain. The MRI can detect changes in the brain of your child which are associated with CP. An ultrasound test is another option. It makes use of sound waves to create images of your child's brain and organs. This test is more appropriate for infants who are still very young however it may not be as reliable in diagnosing issues that are associated with CP.

A doctor may refer your child, addition to an MRI and a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on children's diseases affecting the spine, muscles, and nerves). These specialists can provide an precise diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your child.

Treatment

Each child has a distinct CP and needs a distinct plan of care. Your family might work with an entire team of experts that includes a pediatric neurosurgeon and a neurosurgeon along with physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and child development specialist. These experts will form a treatment team which includes your family and oversee your child's development.

Doctors are able to make a diagnosis of CP in light of your child's symptoms and history. They may conduct a physical exam to look for signs and symptoms of the condition, like muscles being weak or tight as well as difficulty walking or moving, problems with speech and intelligence, and abnormal reflexes.

In some instances, a doctor might be able to determine that your child may develop CP when they observe certain risk factors. If your child is born with a breech birth or has a difficult delivery, for instance they are more likely to CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher in babies younger than their gestational age. Birth complications such as infections, high fever, and other conditions that can hinder the flow of oxygen to brain, may also increase your child's risk of cerebral palsy.

Medications can help improve your child's mobility and decrease pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles or in the spinal fluid around your cord. Medications can also be used to treat seizures as well as other disorders, like epilepsy, which can be associated with cerebral palsy.

Preventing CP

While there's no way to prevent most cases of CP that are due to genetics, you can take steps to help reduce the risk. If you can, seek regular prenatal health check-ups. Address any health issues prior to pregnancy. Also, keep up to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus -- are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants.

Babies who have CP are typically slow to learn how to sit, roll over, crawl and walk. They might have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear sluggish or floppy. Or they might have a high level of muscle tone (hypertonia) which causes their bodies to appear stiff or rigid. They could show signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.

About 75% of patients with CP have spastic CP which causes muscles to become stiff and tight. Some people have just a few affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects all their muscles including those on their mouth and face. This type of CP known as spastic hemoplegia can cause a curved back (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.

Another type of CP is dyskinetic CP that causes movement that's slow and twisty or rapid and fast and jerky. It can make your legs or face appear as if they're writhing, and you might get a little drooling. Some people with CP may have more than one type of CP. Each form is distinct.

Living with CP

Cerebral Palsy can affect everyone differently. It can be mild or severe. Some people with CP require little assistance, while others have difficulty moving and must use wheelchairs. Severe cases can lead to spastic quadriplegia.

Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movements. Surgery may be required to fix issues in their joints or bones. They may experience hearing loss, fatigue and pain along with excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Certain people with CP suffer from depression which is more prevalent in the CP population than in the general public.

Many people who have CP reside in their home, take part in community activities and receive assistance from a personal source. They can also find employment, though some may need to adjust their schedules. Those with CP are often prematurely aged because their bodies are unable to handle the extra stress.

Even with the most severe of symptoms, a person with CP is able to live an enjoyable and joyful life. They can have friends, a family and careers. They can also join local support groups to help them find local resources and connect with others who suffer from CP. Many foundations and associations offer financial aid to families in order to ease the burden so that they can focus on receiving quality care. You may be entitled to compensation if the medical negligence of a healthcare professional resulted in your child's cerebral paralysis. Get a free case review today to determine if qualify.