How can cerebral palsy be prevented?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There is no surefire way to prevent cerebral palsy. The best thing to do is take care of yourself and make every effort to stay healthy while you are pregnant, as many cases of cerebral palsy develop before birth. If you are pregnant, be sure you have been immunized against illnesses that can cause brain damage to the fetus.

Continue Learning about Cerebral Palsy

Diana Meeks

Cerebral palsy refers to a number of neurological problems that can affect muscle control. Cerebral ...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Someone with cerebral palsy needs to learn to be as independent as possible. If you are caring for s...

Riverside Center for Neurosciences

The United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Foundation estimates that nearly 800,000 children and adults in the ...

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

Cerebral palsy, which affects about one in every five hundred newborns, is caused by some kind o...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Cerebral Palsy

Exposure to certain infections during pregnancy, fetal stroke, or other rare conditions cause 2 to 4 babies out of 1000 to be born with cerebral palsy (CP). Occasionally a stroke, severe infection or severe jaundice shortly after birth may also cause the syndrome. People with cerebral palsy have very poor coordination, muscle spasms, drooling, problems speaking and swallowing. There is no cure, but various therapies can help. Although people with CP may have other conditions, including mental retardation, most people with CP are not mentally retarded. Treatment may include muscle relaxants, surgery, and physical therapy.

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