Every year over eight thousand infants are diagnosed with cerebral palsy. In addition, some fifteen hundred more preschool aged children are recognized as victims of cerebral palsy. One child in every four hundred is affected by this condition.
Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Proper prenatal and neonatal care can help lower the incidence of cerebral palsy in children. Lack of oxygen, or asphyxia, during the birthing process is a major risk factor that can cause cerebral palsy. The simple fact is brain cells die when deprived of oxygen. In some cases a viral or bacterial infection contracted by the mother can also damage the fetal brain. Trauma to the infants' head from an injury, physical abuse or trauma to the pregnant mother can cause cerebral palsy. Maternal drug or alcohol abuse can be factors related to cerebral palsy in children. Statistics reveal that 20% of children with cerebral palsy suffered a brain injury at birth due to medical negligence or malpractice.
Characteristics of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a complex medical condition with varying degrees of severity from mild to severe. Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination.
Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
A diagnosis of cerebral palsy may be made if one or more of the following symptoms are present:
- Muscle tightness and spasticity
- Involuntary movements
- Gait disturbances
- Difficulty swallowing
- Impairment of sight, hearing or speech
- Seizures
- Breathing problems
- Bladder and bowel control problems
- Skin disorders
- Learning disabilities
- Care and Treatment of Children with Cerebral Palsy
While there is no cure for cerebral palsy at this time, there are many treatments and therapies available to improve your child's quality of life and help them to achieve their full potential in life. There are healthcare professionals, physical therapists, speech therapists, psychologists and others who will work tirelessly to provide treatment and support for your child.
If your child is a victim of cerebral palsy and suffered an injury at birth, you are entitled to financial compensation so you can ensure your child has access to all the therapies that are available to them for the rest of their lives, so please visit the website of the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. today serving West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Lake Worth, and Port St. Lucie, Florida to protect the legal rights of your child.
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