Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that causes problems with body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by abnormalities in parts of the brain that control muscle movements. While most children are born with this condition, signs and symptoms may not appear until months or years later. Symptoms of cerebral palsy may vary greatly. Most people with cerebral palsy have problems with movement and posture, however, some may also have intellectual disabilities, impaired vision and hearing, or speech problems. The symptoms of cerebral palsy usually do not worsen with age.
Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
The symptoms of cerebral palsy may vary greatly for each individual. Symptoms may include difficulty with movement and muscle coordination, as well as neurological problems.
Movement Related Problems
Symptoms may include problems with walking, muscles that are stiff, weak, or floppy, as well as:
- Stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes (spasticity)
- Stiff muscles with normal reflexes (rigidity)
- Lack of muscle coordination (ataxia)
- Tremors or involuntary movements
- Slow, writhing movements (athetosis)
- Favoring one side of the body
- Walking on toes
- A crouched or wide gait while walking
- Excessive drooling
- Speech problems
- Difficulty with fine motor skills
Some individuals with cerebral palsy may also have difficulty with eating and swallowing because the muscles of the throat have been affected by the disease.
Neurological Problems
Other symptoms may be neurological, affecting the brain and related functions that may include:
- Seizures
- Intellectual disabilities
- Vision or hearing problems
- Psychiatric conditions
- Urinary incontinence
Symptoms may be severe in some individuals and milder in others.
Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy affects the central nervous system and may occur as a result of several different causes. In most cases, the condition develops during pregnancy, and is caused by abnormalities inside the developing brain during fetal growth. This may be caused by:
- Genetic disorders
- Infections that affect the developing fetus
- Fetal stroke
- Improper brain development
Cerebral palsy may also be caused by brain damage that occurs during the first few months of life. This damage may be caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain during a difficult labor and delivery, or as a result of a brain infection, premature birth, or a head injury.
Diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy
If cerebral palsy is suspected, a review of symptoms and a physical examination is performed. Blood tests may be administered to rule out any other conditions and additional diagnostic tests may include:
- MRI scan
- EEG
- CT scan
- Cranial Ultrasound
Vision and hearing tests, as well as a complete neurological screening may also help to diagnose cerebral palsy.
Treatment of Cerebral Palsy
Although there is no cure for cerebral palsy, there are several treatments available to help ease the symptoms of this condition and improve physical capabilities. Treatment for cerebral palsy may include medication to help control seizures, relax muscle spasms and relieve pain. In addition, individuals may benefit from the following therapies to increase mobility and muscle function:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Recreational therapy
Speech and language therapy may be beneficial to those patients whose speech is affected by the disorder. Speech therapists can also help with difficulties with muscles used in eating and swallowing. Assistive devices such as braces, splints or casts may be effective at increasing mobility. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct structural abnormalities or release tight muscles.
Through continued treatment, most children are able to improve their motor skills and lead a life that is as close to normal as possible, and go on to enjoy functional, independent adult lives.