5 Cerebral Palsy Lawyers Tips From The Professionals
Medications For Cerebral Palsy
Many medications can help those with cerebral palsy to reduce the spasticity of their muscles and increase their flexibility. Some medicines can cause unwanted side effects or safety hazards especially when used over a long period of time.
Surgery is not a cure for CP however 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 class of non-progressive conditions that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition first manifests in infancy or early childhood and is caused by damage or abnormalities within the brain. The accident could have occurred in the womb or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not know the exact cause.
The doctor will examine your child to diagnose CP. The doctor will conduct baby a test to check the strength of his or her muscles as well as reflexes and movements. They will also monitor the baby's development over time to see if he or she is reaching milestones.
If a doctor suspects that there's something wrong, they can request an imaging test. The most common test is an MRI which makes use of magnetic fields to make detailed images of the brain of your baby as well as any structures inside it. The MRI can detect CP-related changes in the brain of your child. Another option is an ultrasound. It makes use of sound waves to create images of your child's brain and organs. This test is simpler for infants in the very early stages, but may not be as effective in detecting CP-related problems.
In addition to an MRI or ultrasound scan, the doctor could refer your child to specialists in pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics or pediatric physiatrists (doctors with special training in children's spine diseases muscles, nerves, as well as the muscles). These specialists can provide a more accurate diagnose and create a plan for treatment for your child.
Treatment
Every child's CP is different and requires an individual health plan. Your family may work with an entire team of experts that includes neurosurgeons and pediatric neurologists along with physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and a child development specialist. The experts will form an interprofessional treatment team together with your family members to monitor your child's development.
Doctors are able to diagnose CP in light of the symptoms of your child, as well as their medical background. They can also conduct a physical examination to check for signs of the condition. These may include muscles that are tight and weak as well as difficulty walking or moving, speech and intelligence problems and abnormal reflexes.
In certain instances, doctors might be able to determine that your child is likely to develop CP if they see specific risk factors. For instance, if a child was born in the breech position or has difficulties in labor and delivery or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to develop CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher in infants who are younger than their gestational age. Problems during labor and birth such as infections, high fever, and other conditions that interfere with oxygen flow to the brain, can increase your child's risk of cerebral palsy.
The use of medicines can improve your child's movements and reduce pain and stiffness in muscles. cerebral palsy lawsuit santa clarita can be taken orally, injected into muscles, or infused into the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. The medications can also be used to treat seizures and other disorders such as epilepsy frequently associated with cerebral palsy.
Preventing CP
Although there's no way you can prevent most cases of CP that are linked to genetics however, you can take steps to help lower the risk. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal medical attention. Address any health issues prior to the time of pregnancy. Also, stay up-to current with vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, like rubella or cytomegalovirus, are associated with an increase in cerebral palsy in infants.
Babies with CP might be slow to learn how to sit, crawl, and walk. They may have low muscle tone (hypotonia) which causes them to appear sluggish or soft. They may have high muscle tone that makes their bodies appear stiff and rigid. They may exhibit signs of speech difficulties or seizures, or prefer one side of their body.
About 75 percent of CP patients have spastic CP. This causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Some have only a handful of affected muscles, while others have more severe spasticity that affects their entire muscles, including those in their face and mouth. This type of CP, called spastic hemiplegia may cause a back that is curled (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing.
Dyskinetic CP is a different type of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisty or quick and fast and jerky. It can make your limbs and face appear to be flailing around, and it can cause you to drool. Certain people with CP may have more than one form of CP. Each type is distinct.
Living with CP
Cerebral palsy can affect people differently. It can be mild or severe. Some people with CP require minimal assistance and others have trouble getting around and require a wheel chair. Extreme cases of CP may result in full-body paralysis, called spastic quadriplegia.
Children with CP might benefit from physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their balance, posture and movement. Surgery is sometimes required to correct problems in their bones or joints. They may suffer from hearing loss, pain and fatigue along with excessive drooling, and difficulty in recognizing sensations. Certain people suffering from CP suffer from depression, which is between three and four times more common than in the general population.
Many people with CP reside in their homes, participate in activities with the community and receive individual assistance. Some may have to make adjustments, but they will find employment. People with CP are often prematurely aged as their bodies struggle with the added stress.
A person suffering from CP is able to live a satisfying life, even with severe symptoms. They can have a job as well as a family and friends. They can also join local support groups which can help them locate local resources and connect with other people who have CP. Many foundations and organizations offer financial aid to families to ease the burden so that they can focus on receiving the best care possible. If your child's cerebral palsy was brought on by negligence on the part of an healthcare professional you may be entitled to compensation. Request a free case evaluation today to see if you have the right to claim.