Cerebral Palsy (also known as CP) is a condition that affects both the brain and muscle movement and control. In most cases, the condition is identified very early, most often within the first 2 years of life.
Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the areas of the brain that control motor movement, as well as posture. In some cases, the damage is caused during gestation; at other times, the damage may occur during the birthing process.
The condition is not inherited, but the risks of cerebral palsy may increase in tandem with congenital deformations that occur during the fetal-development stage, infections to the mother that occur during pregnancy and other medical conditions the mother may experience at the time of pregnancy. Head injuries to infants and toddlers may also cause the condition.
Learning to recognize symptoms of cerebral palsy may help parents seek early and effective treatment for the condition.
Instructions
1. Watch for various symptoms during your child's developmental stages. Different children will often exhibit different symptoms, so pay attention; if you're not sure about something, ask your doctor. For example, an infant who can't seem to suck on a bottle or breast, even after patient coaxing and encouragement, should be examined immediately by your pediatrician.
2. Look at your child's muscle tone. Is it loose and floppy? Most infants and toddlers like to latch onto objects and swing them around. A child with cerebral palsy may have difficulty grasping or holding onto any object.
3. Watch your child as he sleeps or plays. Does he display unusual bodily motions, spasms or tic-like movements? Also watch for uncontrolled body movements when crawling, rolling over or sitting. These may include twitching, swinging, leaning or being unable to place weight or pressure on a leg or arm.
4. Look at your child's eyes. Do they appear normal? Are they crossed? Does one eye seem to wander? Also watch for signs that your child may be experiencing difficulty seeing objects. Occasionally place brightly colored objects in front of your child, and make sure she can follow movements with her eyes. Some children afflicted with cerebral palsy experience difficulty hearing. Make sure your infant or toddler responds to the sound of your voice, or to loud, sudden noises.
5. Watch your child as he begins to walk. It's normal for most toddlers to fall while learning to walk, but pay close attention to the movements of legs and arms while your child is walking. Do you see a limp? Dragging one leg? Stiff arm or leg movements? Notice if your child has difficulty sitting or standing. Does he seem to lose his balance more often than others? When in doubt, check with your pediatrician.
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