This is a picture of a teen with cerebral palsy who made principal's list at his high school. He is definitely a star.
Spastic Cerebral Palsy is the most common type of CP. People with spastic CP can't relax their muscles or the muscles may be stiff. Athetoid Cerebral Palsy affects the ability to control the muscles of the body. A person's arms or legs may flutter and move suddenly, and Ataxic. People with ataxic Cerebral Palsy have problems with balance and coordination. Their movements may seem shaky.
Common signs of severe Cerebral Palsy that may be noticed shortly after birth include, problems sucking and swallowing, a weak or shrill cry, seizures, and 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. Some problems related to Cerebral Palsy become more evident over time or develop as a child grows. For example, smaller muscles are effected in the arms or legs, the Nervous system problems prevent movement in affected arms and legs, Inactivity affects muscle growth, Abnormal sensations and perceptions, though some people with Cerebral Palsy feel pain when touched lightly. Even everyday activities, such as brushing teeth, may hurt. Abnormal sensations can also make it hard to identify common objects by touch, such as feeling the difference between a soft foam ball and a hard baseball.Drooling is common when facial and throat muscles are affected. Drooling irritates the skin, particularly around the mouth, chin, and chest.
Children who have difficulty brushing their teeth have increased risk of developing cavities and gum disease such as, gingivitis. Seizure medicines may also contribute toward developing gum disease. Falls and other accidents are a risk, depending on muscle control, joint stiffness, and general physical strength. Also, CP-related seizures can cause accidental injuries.Infections and long-term illnesses. Adults with CP are at a higher risk for heart and lung disease. For example, severe CP causes problems with eating. If food is inhaled into the lungs, the risk of lung infection or pneumonia increases.
When people look at an individual that may be different they are automatically considered un-normal, but what is normal? the fact that are legs are longer or we can make rational decisions, I believe everyone is different being that you are diabled or not. With the proper assistance being disabled is just a label and it shouldn’t be a burden for the person to not want to walk outside their homes because they are afraid of what society might say, but still today as a whole we have yet to understand that we should treat each and every person with the same kindness and respect we would treat someone who is “normal”. Yes I understand that as human beings we are afraid of what we do not know, but if we put an effort in trying to understands, I belive the world would be MAGNIFICANT!!
To learn moreon signs and symptoms visit cerebralpalsy.org › About Cerebral Palsy
