Cerebral palsy is a general term that describes a group of chronic conditions which affects a child's movement and muscle coordination. It is occurs when one or more areas of the brain has been damaged, usually during pregnancy or delivery. It is a condition that is generally diagnosed before a child is 18 months old, and though there is no cure, it can be managed. The sooner it is identified, the sooner treatment can begin.
Apgar Score
The apgar test is administered immediately after birth to assess newborns' conditions by testing such things as their reflexes and muscle tone. If a newborn scores low, it can be a sign of cerebral palsy.
Hypotonia
Hypotonia is a term that describes decreased muscle tone. Babies who appear floppy or too relaxed may be demonstrating this symptom of cerebral palsy.
Hypertonia
Hypertonia is a term that describes excessive muscle tone. Babies who appear stiff or rigid most of the time may displaying this symptom of cerebral palsy.
Eating
If your newborn has a difficult time sucking when eating, this can be a sign that they have cerebral palsy. The tongue and mouth are muscular and would be affected by cerebral palsy .
Body Tremors
If your newborn experiences body tremors accompanied by drooling, loss of tongue control, and weakened facial muscles, he may be displaying early signs of cerebral palsy.
Tags: cerebral palsy, cerebral palsy, muscle tone, term that, term that describes, that describes, Babies appear