05 September 2016
Cerebral palsy encompasses a broad range of neurological conditions that affect both movement and coordination. While most cases happen due to damage to the brain before birth, during birth or immediately after birth, a small fraction of cerebral palsy cases occur when the brain suffers damage more than 28 days after birth. This is referred to as acquired cerebral palsy and is commonly caused by head injury or by an infection such as meningitis or septicaemia. Taking proper steps to keep your child healthy and safe after birth can prevent such cases. Vaccinations can also be given to help prevent infections such as meningitis or encephalitis in children.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for cerebral palsy at present. Surgery, supportive treatment, and medications can only help improve the quality of life of affected individuals. Sometimes, the condition may be immediately apparent. In other cases, it can go undetected for a long time. Though the condition does not progress with time, symptoms are more noticeable in the later months or years.
At least 28% of people who have cerebral palsy also have epilepsy. A huge 58% have difficulty communicating and interacting with others. While more than 42% of people have problems with their vision, more than 23% have learning disabilities. Many people also face problems in walking, using their hands, or feeding and dressing themselves. As a result, a lot of people with cerebral palsy are not able to enjoy many of the simple joys of life. Furthermore, only 32% of families with disabled children feel accepted by their local communities. People with cerebral palsy also have an altered life expectancy when compared to healthy people.
This infographic from UKSmobility.com ltd. tries to bring some awareness about the lives of people with cerebral palsy.
Written by UKS Mobility