Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis & Symptoms
Detecting Cerebral Palsy at a Young Age
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 speak with their doctor about cerebral palsy, many doctors are usually reluctant to make a formal diagnosis until the proper tests are conducted and time is given to allow the child to mature at his or her own pace. To make a proper diagnosis, a doctor must conduct a complete examination of the child’s health. This process may include a series of tests to rule out other possible explanations of slower than normal development.
Diagnosing Cerebral Palsy & Identifying the Symptoms
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. You should also know that there are different types of cerebral palsy; however, 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
- 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. 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.
Securing the Financial Resources Your Child Requires
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 suffers from cerebral palsy, contact a Baltimore medical malpractice attorney at The Law Office of Snyder & Snyder, P.A.
By working with a legal professional, you can ensure that you receive the resources you are entitled to, including the appropriate medical care your child deserves. Our firm has more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements* for our clients, and now we are ready to put this experience to work for you. Initial consultations are free and confidential, so don’t wait any longer to give us a call.
Contact our office today at (410) 983-3535 for a free case evaluation.