What Are the Signs That a Birth Injury May Have Led to Cerebral Palsy?

 Posted on May 02,2023 in Cerebral Palsy

As a new parent, there are few things more important than your child's health. You want to give your child the best possible start in life, and that includes detecting any medical or developmental issues early on. Unfortunately, birth injuries can have a significant impact on your child's growth and development, and brain injuries that occur during labor and delivery can be especially serious. In many cases, issues that cause damage to a child's brain may lead to cerebral palsy, a developmental disorder that can result in permanent physical and mental disabilities. By understanding the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy, you can make sure your child will receive the proper treatment.

Delayed Motor Development

Some of the most common signs that a birth injury may have led to cerebral palsy involve developmental delays. If a child does not meet certain milestones at the expected times, this may be an indication that they have a developmental disorder. In some cases, cerebral palsy may primarily affect one side of the body, causing a child to favor arms or legs on one side and limiting their ability to crawl or walk properly. If your child is unable to sit up or does not start crawling or walking after reaching the appropriate age, you may want to consult a doctor to determine the causes of these delays and the options for meeting your child's needs.

Muscle Stiffness or Weakness

Cerebral palsy can affect muscle development. In some cases, a child may have low muscle tone, and they may be unable to properly move different parts of their body. Indications of low muscle tone include limpness or floppiness in a child's body and difficulty moving the head or other body parts. These issues can also result in poor posture.

In other cases, cerebral palsy may result in increased muscle tone, which can also affect a child's ability to perform motor functions. These issues often result in stiffness in a child's body, such as constant arching of the back or flexing and stretching of the arms and legs. A child may also experience involuntary muscle movements, resulting in problems with coordination and difficulty picking up objects or using their hands.

Difficulty Feeding

Due to the issues with muscle control caused by cerebral palsy, infants may experience trouble swallowing, which can cause choking or gagging during feedings. When they begin eating solid foods, they may struggle to chew properly, and they may also experience difficulty coordinating their breathing and swallowing. If your child is struggling to eat or is not gaining weight because of issues with feeding, it is essential to speak with a pediatrician and make sure the proper steps are followed to provide them with sufficient nutrition.

Seizures

Because of the ways the brain is affected, cerebral palsy may be accompanied by epilepsy or similar brain disorders, and a child may experience seizures. In some cases, seizures can be difficult to diagnose in infants, as they may not have the same symptoms that adults or older children experience. If you notice any unusual body movements or behaviors that could indicate seizures, it is crucial to contact a doctor right away.

Contact Our Illinois Cerebral Palsy Lawyers

Cerebral palsy can have a significant impact on a child's development and quality of life. It is essential to be aware of the signs that a birth injury may have led to cerebral palsy. With early intervention, children with cerebral palsy can receive the therapy and support they need to improve their motor skills and their overall well-being. At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd., we work with families in these situations to make sure they have the resources needed to provide children with the proper care and treatment throughout their lives. To learn more about how our Chicago birth injury attorneys can help you provide for your child's needs, contact us at 312-462-4200 and arrange a free consultation.