Cerebral palsy or spastic paralysis is caused by brain injuries or infections, usually before birth but sometimes within the first two years of age. Exposure of the pregnant mother to toxins, infant stroke, jaundice and hypoxia (lack of oxygen) all have the potential to cause cerebral palsy.
Symptoms
Cerebral palsy may cause symptoms such as drooling or problems with swallowing, sucking or speaking; muscle tremors, spasticity, lack of coordination and problems with precise motions.
More Symptoms
Other symptoms sometimes caused by cerebral palsy include urinary incontinence, vomiting or constipation, pain, seizures, paralysis and hearing problems.
Burnout
An often unexpected but quite common effect of cerebral palsy is burnout or exhaustion in caregivers.
Surgery
Sometimes surgery is necessary to correct palsy-related problems with gastroesophageal reflux, remedy pain and spasticity by cutting certain nerves or to place feeding tubes.
Complications
Complications associated with cerebral palsy include scoliosis, pneumonia, injuries from falls, bowel obstruction, bone thinning and social stigma.
