Cerebral palsy is a condition that manifests as a whole category of motor impairment symptoms associated with damage to the CNS and underdeveloped brain. CP can present with intellectual development disorders, epilepsy.
Causes
The cause of CP is disturbances in intrauterine development caused by infectious diseases, toxoplasmosis, herpes, and others. The risk of the disease is significantly increased by premature birth, rapid or prolonged labor, birth injuries, and jaundice. Maternal diseases also increase the likelihood of developing this condition, including alcoholism, drug addiction, and endocrine diseases.
Symptoms of CP in Israel
The condition can be registered immediately after birth or in the first months of the child's life. The symptoms depend on the degree of brain damage and its area. The disease can be mildly expressed or have severe symptoms that lead to disability. Symptoms that should prompt a visit to the doctor include lack of movement, inability to hold the head, involuntary movements, and seizures.
The areas of the brain that control muscle management, balance, and movement are most often affected. The damaged CNS is unable to properly control the muscles, leading to symptoms such as twitching, paralysis, and high muscle tone. Children with CP significantly lag in development. High muscle tone prevents free movement, leading to complete immobility. The child cannot grasp a toy or clench and unclench their fist.
Diagnosis of CP in Israel
The diagnosis of CP in Israel is made based on an examination by a neurologist and a set of instrumental studies:
- electrophysiological study of muscle potentials and analysis of peripheral nerves;
- study of brain bioelectrical activity – electroencephalogram.
Diagnosis also involves an otolaryngologist, ophthalmologist, psychiatrist, orthopedist, and epileptologist. It is also important to exclude dystrophic diseases and brain tumors.
Treatment of CP in Israel
Treatment of CP is lifelong and should begin as early as possible to ensure the maximum possible development of the child. Treatment starts from the first days of the child's life and should aim to compensate for the defect, reduce skeletal deformities, and adapt to normal movements. Treatment of CP in Israel is comprehensive and includes medication therapy, physical therapy, surgical intervention, and assistance from psychologists and speech therapists.
Prevention
Prevention of maternal diseases during pregnancy.