Cerebral Palsy In Children And Teens

Cerebral palsy, also known as CP, is a disorder of movement and posture that is not progressive in nature. It is caused by an injury or a defect or lesion in the developing brain of a fetus, newborn of infant. It is one of the most common causes of lasting disability in children and is prevalent in approximately four out of every one thousand live births.

Cerebral palsy can be caused for a number of different reasons. Problems result in premature births (being born too early), not getting enough blood, oxygen, or other nutrients during the pregnancy, a serious injury, a serious infection that can affect the brain, or genetic conditions. All of these may be the cause of cerebral palsy. In many cases it is difficult to determine what the precise cause was and in many cases even a general theory may not be formed.

Cerebral palsy has physical symptoms that may be worse in some cases. Some people may only have a slight limp or have difficulty walking. While on the other hand some patients have little or no control at all over their arms, legs, or other parts of the body, such as the mouth or tongue. These symptoms can cause problems with eating and speaking. In severe forms of cerebral palsy it is more likely to have seizures or mental retardation. Babies diagnosed with cerebral palsy often have problems with posture such as their bodies being very stiff or very floppy. Sometimes birth defects, such as an abnormal spine shape, a small jawbone, or a small head can occur along with cerebral palsy. New symptoms may appear over time but the brain injury itself does not get worse over time in cerebral palsy patients.

Cerebral palsy is diagnosed after a full history is gathered and physical examinations are performed. While babies may not show signs until later, the diagnosis of CP will usually occur in early childhood. Neurological examinations will be completed and the brain may be scanned as well. Other developmental tests may also be performed. It can take several months for a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Parents are often the first to notice the lack of abilities or skills that are common in children in the same age group as their child.

There is no cure for cerebral palsy and lifelong treatment is probably needed. Treatments can help with symptoms, prevent other problems, and make the most of your childs skills and abilities. Medicines, surgery, physical therapy and special equipment may all be used to treat cerebral palsy. There are many support groups in communities for families with a child with CP. It is advised to take advantage of these support groups or counseling. This may help you deal with the wide range of emotions you may experience when a family member is diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Proving emotional support for your child is essential and this should be taken into account as well.