Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis & Symptoms
Developmental Delay and Cerebral Palsy
Developmental Delay Diagnosis
In most instances, by six months of age it is apparent that a child is experiencing some level of developmental delay. Although this may be a good time for parents to ask their doctor about cerebral palsy, doctors are usually reluctant to make a diagnosis until tests are conducted and time is given to allow the child to mature at his or her own pace. To make a diagnosis, a doctor must conduct a complete examination of the child’s health status. This process may include a series of tests to rule out other possible explanations of slower than normal development.
Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis
A cerebral palsy diagnosis takes place over time and is not made based on one visit with a doctor. Because the disorder is intertwined with a child’s developmental stages, indicators of cerebral palsy will become more noticeable as a child matures during the first stages of his or her life.
Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
There are different types of cerebral palsy, but all forms of the disorder carry the symptoms of irregular muscle tone, reflexes, posture, coordination and motor development. These conditions often manifest themselves as:
- Spasticity (the condition of certain muscles in the body being continuously contracted)
- Paralysis (a loss of muscle function)
- Seizures (temporary convulsions)
- Dysarthria (speech impediments)
- Unsteady gait or foot movement
- Stiffness of the limbs
- Bladder control problems
- Impaired tongue movement
There is not a causal relationship between cerebral palsy and mental retardation, but the two conditions are found together in around 25% of all people with cerebral palsy. The roots of many cases of cerebral palsy stem from complications in the brain, and the symptoms of this complex disorder can be wide-ranging and vary greatly from individual to individual. Some people afflicted with cerebral palsy may show minimal symptoms of the disorder, while others may be more severely affected by their condition.
Because the symptoms of cerebral palsy can be challenging to diagnose, it is essential to work with a qualified and caring physician to ensure appropriate medical attention. Cerebral palsy is a disorder that changes the lives of patients and their family members. If you believe your child may suffer from cerebral palsy, contact an experienced cerebral palsy trial attorney at Snyder & Snyder for a free consultation. By working with a professional, you can ensure that you receive the resources you are entitled to, including the appropriate medical care your child deserves.
