1. Look for Obvious Signs
Since there are several levels of quadriplegia, depending on the location of the spinal injury, signs and symptoms of the disease can vary among patients. However, doctors agree that there are some symptoms that should be present in most patients. The most obvious signs of the disease include loss of sensation and inability to move the extremities. In some patients, this can escalate to complete paralysis. Since the lower body in general is severally affected, patients usually suffer impotence, urinary incontinence and loss of muscle definition. Advanced cases, especially in older patients, can lead to breathing difficulties. Patients who have upper-neck injuries, however, will usually experience paralysis from the shoulders down. These patients are the ones who typically experience breathing difficulties, regardless of age.
2. Submit to Medical Tests
Doctors can perform a series of tests in order to confirm the presence of quadriplegia. Patients experiencing problems of the spine are often referred to a neurologist, who will usually order a tomography and CT scan. X-rays of different parts of the spine are also recommended. MRIs are sometimes required for patients who are experiencing pain or throbbing in certain parts of the body (especially the extremities) but still seem to have control over movement. MRIs can also help determine where the injury occurred and what can be expected in terms of recovery.
3. Rule Out Other Diseases
If the patient hasn't been involved in an obvious recent accident or suffered a major injury, it may take some time for doctors to consider quadriplegia as the final diagnosis. Most doctors will recommend a series of tests to rule out other causes of paralysis, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, brain tumors or lead poisoning. Exams to rule out Lyme disease or infectious diseases are also standard. The most common tests include a combination of spinal fluid analysis, blood tests and glucose tolerance testing.
