Cerebral Palsy Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy are not always apparent, even when it is present at birth. More often, CP goes unnoticed until the child is between the ages of 1 and 3, because of the way a child's nervous system develops and matures.
Early signs of cerebral palsy can be as simple as having difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or using scissors, or as profound as being unable to maintain balance or walk. Some of the earliest signs include the following:

• Delayed milestones such as controlling head, rolling over, reaching with one hand, sitting without support, crawling, or walking.
• Persistence of infantile or primitive reflexes, which normally disappear 3-6 months after birth.
• Developing handedness before age 18 months: This indicates weakness or abnormal muscle tone on one side, which may be an early sign of CP.

Severely afflicted patients may have involuntary movements, such as uncontrollable hand motions and drooling. Others suffer from associated medical disorders, such as seizures and mental retardation. When CP is severe, signs are often noticed at birth or shortly thereafter. However, some early signs of severe CP vary according to the specific type of CP present.
Signs of severe CP noticeable shortly after birth:

• Problems sucking and swallowing.
• A weak or shrill cry.
• Unusual positions. Often the body is either very relaxed and floppy or very stiff. When held, babies may arch their backs and extend their arms and legs.

Signs that become more evident as the child grows:

• Smaller muscles in affected arms or legs. Nervous system problems prevent movement in affected arms and legs. Inactivity affects muscle growth.
• Abnormal sensations and perceptions. Some people with CP feel pain when touched lightly. Even everyday activities, such as brushing teeth, may hurt.
• Skin irritation. Drooling is common when facial and throat muscles are affected. Drooling irritates the skin, particularly around the mouth, chin, and chest.
• Dental problems. Children who have difficulty brushing their teeth have increased risk of developing cavities and gum disease (gingivitis).
• Accidents. Falls and other accidents are a risk, depending on muscle control, joint stiffness, and general physical strength.
• Infections and long-term illnesses. Severe CP causes problems with eating. If food is inhaled into the lungs, a child's risk of developing pneumonia increases. Adults are at a higher risk for heart and lung disease.
• Hearing loss: Partial hearing loss is not unusual in people with cerebral palsy. The child may not respond to sounds or may have delayed speech.
• Vision problems: Three quarters of people with cerebral palsy have strabismus, which is the turning in or out of one eye. This is due to weakness of the muscles that control eye movement.

Haymond Law is committed to helping those whose lives have been affected by cerebral palsy. We provide personalized representation to families with children who have serious medical conditions including cerebral palsy. Our attorneys pride themselves on personal attention to detail, and will go to clients’ homes if they are unable to come to any of their offices.