A common childhood disease,
Cerebral Palsy (CP) describes individuals with abnormalities in body posture,
balance, speech, and movement, all of which are due to problems in the
neurological process. This condition is not caused due to hereditary factors
but from brain damage. Individuals affected by CP have the same kind of desires
and goals as us, so we must not discriminate against them anywhere.
Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
Have you noticed people around
carefully as of late? People affected by CP may be exhibiting some of more of
these symptoms. However, these are not the only Cerebral Palsy
symptoms and these may vary from case to case.
•
Problem in coordination
•
Decreased or increased muscle tone
•
Tremors
•
Delays in attaining milestones
•
Difficulties in eating
Globally 17 million people are
affected by CP. 15-20% of all physically disabled children face Cerebral Palsy,
while 3/1000 of live births get this abnormality in India. It is certainly the
most common motor disability for childhood across the world. Due to the
developing nature of rural and semi-urban areas as well as less technology
being used in these areas, cases of CP are high in India.
What can Cerebral Palsy affect?
The abnormality may affect any of
the following limbs:
•
Lower limb (Paraplegia)
•
Affects one side of body (Hemiplegia)
•
Affecting all four limbs but lower limb more severe than upper limb
(Diplegia)
•
Affecting all four limbs (Quadriplegia). Sometimes face may be contorted
as well
Prevention: cerebral palsy can’t be
prevented fully but its incidence can be decrease by strict follow-up and good
care given to mother and new born. Regular antenatal checkup under experienced
gynecologist, regular ultrasound of foetus, regular intake of folic acid, iron,
treatment of hypothyroidism, treatment of TORCH infection, delivery in hospital
with good care to new born under pediatrician can decrease the incidence. However, once CP has kicked in, there is no
sure-shot cure as of now.
Medications, surgery and speech therapy, along with
physiotherapy, have helped many people in leading a contented life. Exercises
and muscle training help the body gradually regain control. Your regular
doctor, upon confirmation of CP, is likely to recommend you to a specialist who
can train children on the brain and various nervous conditions. A series of tests will also be run by your
neurologist and will also look to eliminate all other causes.
