Cerebral palsy is caused by injury or infection of the brain either before birth or within the first two years of life. Treating cerebral palsy requires the support of physicians, therapists, nurses, social workers and often long-term caregivers.
Symptoms
One of the most evident symptoms of cerebral palsy is spastic or overly tight muscle tone, which can lead to joint deformity and even dislocation.
Complications
Complications of cerebral palsy include difficulty swallowing and sucking, which may lead to the need for a feeding tube, and pneumonia, pain and gait problems.
Aids
Cerebral palsy patients may benefit from aids, such as hearing aids, glasses, wheelchairs and braces, that let them participate more fully in life.
Outlook
Cerebral palsy does not shorten the patient's life span, although the symptoms and complications of this disease and the social stigma sometimes associated with it, can make life a challenge.
Treatments
Surgery, such as correcting joint contractures, may be used to remedy some complications of cerebral palsy. Muscle relaxants and physical, occupational and speech therapy may also be used to help improve the patient's quality of life.
