Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of conditions of the brain and nervous system that impairs functions like movement, cognition, sight and possibly hearing. CP is a condition resulting from injury to an infant’s brain before, during or shortly after birth. CP is often associated with: low levels of oxygen in the brain (hypoxia), prematurity, bleeding in the brain, brain infections, head injury, infections in the mother during pregnancy, and severe jaundice. In some cases, these causes could be the result of negligent or improper medical care. Cerebral palsy symptoms may vary in severity as the location and size of the damage to the brain can also vary.
Cerebral Palsy Symptoms May Include:
- Physical cerebral palsy symptoms:
- Abnormal walk, or gait.
- Muscle weakness, partial paralysis or tight muscles
- Tremors
- Loss of coordination
- Tight joints, or joint contracture
- Brain and nervous system cerebral palsy symptoms:
- Speech problems (dysarthria)
- Hearing and vision abnormalities
- Seizures
- Constant pain
- Decreased intelligence, learning disabilities
- Other cerebral palsy symptoms:
- Digestive disorders such as reflux and constipation (in infants and at all ages)
- Slower than normal growth
- Drooling
- Urinary incontinence
CP can indirectly contribute to osteoporosis, scoliosis, pneumonia, arthritis and bowel obstruction. There is no cure for cerebral palsy. CP is a lifelong disorder that may require long-term care.
Cerebral Palsy Resources
The following are good resources for information on cerebral palsy:
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- United Cerebral Palsy
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Cerebral palsy lawyers
Cerebral Palsy Symptoms May Indicate Childbirth Injury
Cerebral palsy symptoms are the result of damage to the brain, which is often the result of medical malpractice or negligence occurring at birth. The lifelong consequence of CP is a lifetime of health concerns and extra care expenses. If you have observed cerebral palsy symptoms in your child, call Sokolove Law today at 877-822-8214 or fill out the form on this page to request a free no-obligation legal consultation.