Cerebral Palsy Symptoms and Treatment

Cerebral palsy is a term that is used to describe a range of disorders that affect the body's balance, posture and movement. Cerebral palsy can be translated into the terms "brain paralysis" and is caused by abnormal developments in the brain.
One of the first signs that an infant has cerebral palsy is by delayed milestones that require the use of the large motor skills and head control. These include rolling over, sitting unsupported, crawling, or walking. As infants with cerebral palsy begin to get older, they still show strong signs of reflexes that were once present at birth, such as being startled by loud noises and jerking during their sleep cycles.

Infants and toddlers with cerebral palsy will also begin to display a preference over one hand before the age of 18 months. This can be an indication that one side of the body has stronger muscle control, while the other has weaker control.
As the nervous system matures, more obvious symptoms begin to occur. The muscles are abnormal and inconsistent, sometimes being very stiff and sometimes being very relaxed. For these reasons, people with cerebral palsy will move their limbs in unusual positions. In addition, movements can be abrupt or slow moving.

Another symptom of cerebral palsy is difficulty speaking and swallowing. This is because it is difficult to move and control the muscles of the mouth, tongue and throat. Because some people with cerebral palsy suffer from mental retardation, seizures, hearing and vision loss can also be symptoms.
When diagnosing cerebral palsy symptoms, it is important to remember that all the symptoms vary from mild to severe. The type of brain damage which has occurred will determine how severe and apparent the symptoms are.
While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, there are many treatments that help to reduce the symptoms and can even reduce certain disabilities associated with the disorder. Most commonly, physical therapy sessions are given to help strengthen the muscles. Stretching and toning exercises are done to increase flexibility and control. Occupational therapy is also beneficial and teaches patients how to go about their day-to-day routine to be as independent as possible.
Various medications can also be used to help reduce the symptoms of cerebral palsy. Some are used to work directly on the brain so that a patient can gain muscle control. Others work at relaxing the muscles and prevent them from making jerky movements. Finally, medications can be used to work directly on certain symptoms including seizures, vision loss and difficulty eating.

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