Medications For Cerebral Palsy Many medications aid people with cerebral palsy to reduce muscle spasticity and increase flexibility. Certain medications can trigger unwanted negative side effects or even safety risks, particularly when used long-term. Surgery isn't a solution for CP but it can to improve mobility and decrease pain. It may also help to reduce seizures, which can be life-threatening for those who suffer from CP. Diagnosis Cerebral Palsy is a grouping of non-progressive diseases that affect movement, posture and the muscles in the legs or arms. The condition is typically diagnosed early in the child or in infancy. It is caused by brain damage or other abnormalities. The injury could have occurred during the womb or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not be aware of the exact cause. The doctor will examine your child to diagnose CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test to determine the muscle tone and reflexes, as well as movements. They will also track your baby's growth over time to determine whether he is reaching the milestones. If a doctor suspects that there's something wrong, they may request an imaging test. The most common test is an MRI that makes use of magnetic fields to produce precise images of your baby's brain and any structures that are within it. The MRI can detect changes in your child's brain that are related to CP. An ultrasound test is another option. It uses sound waves to create images of the brain and organs of your child. This test is more appropriate for infants who are still very young, but it may not be as reliable in identifying problems that are connected with CP. In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, your doctor may refer your child to specialists in developmental pediatrics, pediatric neurology, or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with specialized training in children's diseases of the spine, nerves, and muscles). These specialists will provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a plan of treatment for your child. Treatment Every child has a different CP, and each needs a distinct treatment plan. Your family will likely collaborate with a team of specialists, including neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists, physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist and child developmental specialist. The experts will form an interprofessional treatment team together with your family members to monitor your child's progress. Doctors are able to diagnose CP based upon the child's symptoms as well as their medical background. They may also conduct a physical exam to identify symptoms and signs of the condition, like muscles being weak or tight in walking or moving and speech, difficulties with intelligence and abnormal reflexes. Doctors can determine that your child is suffering from CP in the event that certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child was born in the breech position or suffers from a difficult labor and delivery in which case they are more likely to be diagnosed with CP. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is also higher in babies who are smaller than their gestational age. The risk of developing cerebral palsy can be increased due to complications during labor and delivery. These include infections, high fevers, and other conditions that interfere with oxygen to the brain. The medications can aid your child to move better and lessen stiffness and pain in the muscles. They can be administered orally, into muscles, or infused into the spinal fluid around your cord. These medications can also be used to treat seizures and other conditions such as epilepsy often associated with cerebral palsy. Preventing CP Although there's no way to avoid the majority of cases of CP which are attributed to genetics however, you can take steps to help reduce the risk. Make sure you receive regular prenatal visits and address health issues prior becoming pregnant, if that's possible. Also, stay up to the latest on vaccines during pregnancy. Certain infections -- such as rubella and cytomegalovirus -- are linked to an increased risk of developing cerebral palsy in infants. Babies with CP tend to be slow to learn to sit up, roll over or crawl and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which makes them appear relaxed or floppy. They could also have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They might favor one side of their body or exhibit symptoms of speech issues or seizures. Around 75% of CP patients suffer from spastic CP. This results in muscles becoming tight and stiff. Some suffer from only a few affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity, which affects all their muscles as well as those in their mouth and face. This kind of CP, called spastic hemiplegia can result in a curved back (scoliosis), or difficulty swallowing. Dyskinetic CP is a different type of CP. It causes movements that are slow and twisted, or fast and quick and jerky. You might be drooling and your face or limbs may appear as if they are moving around. Some people who suffer from CP may have more than one form of CP. Each form is different. Living with CP Cerebral palsy affects everybody differently in severity, ranging from mild to. Certain people suffering from CP require little assistance, while other individuals have difficulty moving around and must use wheelchairs. Severe cases can lead to a full-body paralysis called spastic quadriplegia. Children with CP are able to benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and movement. Surgery may be needed to correct the problems with their joints or bones. Hearing loss or fatigue, joint pain, and excessive drooling are all possible symptoms. Certain patients with CP develop depression which is 3 to 4 times more common than the general population. Many people with CP live in their own home, take part in community activities and receive assistance from a personal source. They can also find jobs although some may need to make accommodations. People who suffer from CP tend to experience premature aging as their bodies struggle to deal with stress and strain. A person with CP can lead a full life even if they have severe symptoms. They may have friends, a family and even a job. They can also join local support groups which can help them find local resources and connect with other people who have CP. Financial assistance is offered by foundations and other organizations to ease the burden on families so they can focus on getting quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on by negligence on the part of medical professionals you may be qualified for compensation. Find out if you're eligible for a complimentary review of your case today.