Cerebral Palsy (cont.)
What is the long-term outlook for patients with
cerebral palsy?
The answer is complex. Since cerebral palsy is actually a set of symptoms associated with
a variety of causes, potential treatments will have to be diverse. Many
scientists are now focusing on recent discoveries that suggest we will be able
to replace lost or damaged brain cells. While such therapies are not yet
available, it is likely that real clinical trials will begin in the next 5 to 10
years.
The more we know about the causes of cerebral palsy, the more we can do to prevent
it. For example the use of folic acid in sexually active women may prevent
central nervous system malformations that might lead to cerebral palsy. Avoiding the use of
certain drugs during the pregnancy whether legal, such as prescribed
medications, alcohol or tobacco, or illegal such as cocaine and crack, will also
decrease the changes of cerebral palsy in a child.
It cannot be overemphasized that the most important person in the lives of
children with cerebral palsy is their
caregiver. The caregiver, whether a parent or other
person, must be able to recognize a child's needs and provide for him or her in
a loving, positive environment. Because of the difficulty that many children
with cerebral palsy have in expressing their needs, they are at great risk for unintentional
and intentional neglect as well as overt child abuse. Often, the care of
children with cerebral palsy can be quite taxing emotionally and financially on the family.
The appropriate care for children with cerebral palsy, therefore, must take into account
mental health and financial support for families and caregivers. Many state-run
programs provide out-of-home schooling as well as respite care for the
caregivers, but these services often falls short of what is truly needed.
Healthcare practitioners can very simply improve the lives of their patients by
taking some extra time to listen to the concerns and hopes of the caregivers and
provide thoughtful answers to their questions.
We must recognize that many, and possibly most, children with cerebral palsy can lead
full, meaningful, and happy lives. The team of parents, caregivers, and health
practitioners have the responsibility to help the child with cerebral palsy achieve this
goal.
Next: Cerebral Palsy At A Glance »
- diazepam, Valium - Describes the medication diazepam (Valium), a drug used for the short-term relief of symptoms related to anxiety disorders.
- CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
Latest Medical News
Neurology RSS