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Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. It is caused by a problem with the brain that develops before, during or soon after birth.
Symptoms of cerebral palsy
The symptoms of cerebral palsy are not usually obvious just after a baby is born. They normally become noticeable during the first 2 or 3 years of a childs life.
- delays in reaching development milestones – for example, not sitting by 8 months or not walking by 18 months
- seeming too stiff or too floppy
- weak arms or legs
- fidgety, jerky or clumsy movements
- random, uncontrolled movements
- walking on tiptoes
- a range of other problems – such as swallowing difficulties, speaking problems, vision problems and learning disabilities
The severity of symptoms can vary significantly. Some people only have minor problems, while others may be severely disabled.
Causes of cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy can happen if a babys brain does not develop normally while they are in the womb, or is damaged during or soon after birth.
- bleeding in the babys brain or reduced blood and oxygen supply to their brain
- an infection caught by the mother during pregnancy
- the brain temporarily not getting enough oxygen (asphyxiation) during a difficult birth
- meningitis
- a serious head injury
But in many cases, the exact cause is not clear.
Treatments for cerebral palsy
Theres currently no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatments are available to help people with the condition be as active and independent as possible.
- physiotherapy – techniques such as exercise and stretching to help maintain physical ability and hopefully improve movement problems
- speech therapy to help with speech and communication, and swallowing difficulties
- occupational therapy – where a therapist identifies problems that you or your child have carrying out everyday tasks, and suggests ways to make these easier
- medicine for muscle stiffness and other difficulties
in some cases, surgery to treat movement or growth problems
A team of healthcare professionals will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that meets your or your childs needs.
Increased risk
Some things can increase a babys risk of being born with cerebral palsy including:
- being born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy) – babies born at 32 weeks or earlier are at a particularly high risk
- having a low birthweight
- being part of a multiple birth, such as a twin or triplet
- the mother smoking, drinking a lot of alcohol, or taking drugs such as cocaine, during pregnancy
Your doctor may recommend your baby has regular check-ups to look for symptoms of cerebral palsy during the first 2 years of their life if they have an increased risk of developing the condition.
