Prevention
Preventing cerebral palsy is not always possible but there
are certain causes that can be treated
or prevent cerebral palsy. Healthy pregnancy is always
advisable though a healthy pregnancy will not always prevent
cerebral palsy from occurring. A head injury that can lead
to cerebral palsy can be prevented by the regular use of
safety devices. Child safety seats in the car and
bicycle helmets along with safety measures in the home can
prevent accidental injuries and protect a child’s head
from becoming injured and leading to cerebral palsy.
Newborn babies with jaundice can be treated with phototherapy
that exposes the affected baby to special lights that break
down bile pigments and prevent them from building up and
threatening the brain. A blood test that is routinely
performed on expectant mothers can find Rh incompatibility
that can be treated with a special serum to prevent unwanted
production of antibodies. Doctors can minimize problems
by watching the developing baby and performing a transfusion
when necessary. A simple vaccination that can be
given to women before becoming pregnant can keep Rubella
or German measles from occurring and leading to cerebral
palsy.
Prior to three years of age parents can tell if there may
be something different about their baby. Children who are
not developing motor skills at a normal pace may
possibly have cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy infants are
frequently slower to reach developmental milestones. Abnormal
muscle tone may appear in the child, including decreased
muscle tone that makes the baby appear relaxed and floppy
and increased muscle tone that makes the baby seem stiff
or rigid can indicate cerebral palsy. While these symptoms
are good indicators of cerebral palsy they can also be developmental
problems. A doctor can help distinguish this.
The Center for Cerebral Palsy represents
attorneys throughout the United States providing information
and legal advice for victims.
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