Definition
Cerebral palsy is not a disease it is a condition. Cerebral refers to the brain and palsy means weakness or lack of muscle control. In addition, cerebral palsy is not a single problem, but a complex disease in which virtually all brain cell types could need repair. Approximately 90 percent of all cases are caused by brain injury during the prenatal period (before labor begins). This condition is caused by damage to brain cells that control the movement of muscles. A person with cerebral palsy can have mild to severe physical disabilities. There are varying degrees of therapies depending on the degree of condition. However, just because a person has cerebral palsy, it does not mean they will have other disabilities.
Causes and Risks
Recent studies suggest that cerebral palsy is mostly due to factors affecting the brain before birth. In about 70 percent of cases, cerebral palsy results from events occurring before birth that can disrupt normal development of the brain. This condition is caused by an injury to the brain during pregnancy, at birth, or shortly after birth. The symptoms are usually not noticeable at birth. It was previously assumed that it was caused by fetal distress, such as a lack of oxygen, during the birth process. However, lack of oxygen at birth has not been shown to be the major cause. The motor deficits of babies are usually unrecognizable before 4-6 months of age.
A preemie's risk of cerebral palsy is much higher than that of a full-term baby. In addition, exposure to herpes group B viruses was associated with a two-fold increase in risk. Reproductive/urinary tract infections also may increase the risk in a preterm delivery. Preemie's are already at risk for cerebral palsy and account for approximately one-third of the cases. Adequate prenatal care may reduce the risk of the unborn baby.
Viral infections, lead poisoning, or head injuries that occur early in life can result in acquired cerebral palsy, a less common condition. Spastic cerebral palsy, the most common type, is a condition in which there is too much muscle tone. However, cerebral palsy is NOT a progressive condition, meaning that it does not worsen over time. Cerebral palsy generally is a long-lasting (chronic) condition.
There are roughly 8,000 infants born with this condition each year and some 1,200-1,500 preschool age children acquire cerebral palsy annually. Most children are diagnosed by age 5. Despite significant improvements in obstetric and neonatal care in recent years, the incidence of cerebral palsy has not decreased.
Types
Athetoid cerebral palsy affects the ability to control muscles, leading to involuntary and uncontrolled movements in the affected muscles
Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type of cerebral palsy. Approximately 60 percent of all individuals with cerebral palsy have spasticity that is characterized by tense, contracted muscles. Doctors will often describe which type of spastic cerebral palsy a patient has, based on which limbs are affected.
Ataxic cerebral palsy affects the sense of balance and depth perception. Children who suffer from ataxic cerebral palsy can be described as being very shaky and unsteady.
Symptoms
Children with cerebral palsy may develop eating difficulties, bladder and bowel control problems, breathing problems, and learning disabilities. Children with cerebral palsy have limited use of their arms due to the dysfunction of their neural motor control and stiffness of their joints. Dysarthria is common in people with cerebral palsy, due to problems involving the muscles that control speech and mastication. Although Cerebral Palsy is a permanent condition, as a person learns and grows and practices skills, more control over movement may be achieved.
Treatment
Treatment of cerebral palsy requires a team of specialists to help maximize and coordinate movement, minimize discomfort and pain, and prevent long-term complications. Because the symptoms of cerebral palsy can cause behavioral and emotional problems, many children benefit from counseling or behavior therapy. It is also not "curable" in the accepted sense, although education, therapy, and applied technology can help persons with cerebral palsy lead productive lives.
The goal of drug therapy is to reduce the effects and prevent complications. Physical, speech, and occupational therapy along with counseling today are employed to help people lead healthy, productive lives. Most children with cerebral palsy benefit from early and regular physical and occupational therapy. In addition, education, therapy, and applied technology can help persons with cerebral palsy lead productive lives.
Conclusion
With early and ongoing treatment, the disabilities associated with cerebral palsy can be reduced. People living with cerebral palsy are usually able to live independently in the community, with or without assistance. With support and treatment, though, many people with cerebral palsy can live healthy, happy lives.
For more information about cerebral palsy, visit Cerebral Palsy
About The Author:
David Chandler
Cosmetic Surgery – a review of facial surgery, with personal experiences.
Basic background
Cosmetic surgery consists not just of enhancing someones beauty, but also to help those who have been badly damaged in an accident or who have physical birth defects. Many believe that women are the main gender that go for cosmetic surgery. Yet studies have shown that 11% of men are also getting cosmetic surgery - in fact since 1992, the percentage of men getting cosmetic surgery has gone up by 50%. Middle aged men see plastic surgery as an investment in their career prospects. It is important to know that it is neither sex nor age which makes some type of aesthetic surgery procedure feasible, but what is important is a good general health condition.
The stress of being beautiful is taking a strain on many people. People are spending about 10% of their gross income on cosmetic surgeries. Regarding age, there are some procedures such as facelift which are more frequently done on people over 40; however there are people over 55 who still may not need it. On the other hand, there are also patients under 40 who may benefit from this surgery.
Talk to a cosmetic surgeon to see whether you really need extensive changes in your appearance. Learn if a face lift is right for you. Talk it over with partners, friends, spiritual counsellors or life coaches if need be.
Cosmetic surgery covers a wide range of procedures, including obesity and weight loss surgery, breast augmentation, liposuction & face surgery. A facelift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as a forehead lift or an eyelid surgery. Alternatives to surgery exist. Laser cosmetic surgery may be performed around the eyes or the mouth. More consumers are considering injectables to prolong or avoid facelifts, forehead lifts and eyelid surgeries.
Eyelid surgery
Sagging upper eyelids or bags under the eyes can be one of the clearest signs of facial ageing. Patients interested in eyelid or eye brow surgery may have noticed drooping or sagging of the skin around the eyes. Eyelid surgery, technically called blepharoplasty, corrects not only the eyelids but also eyebags. Often, the procedure is done with another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift. To remove your eyebags whilst lifting your face is only a matter of more time for the surgeon. The goal of eyelid surgery is to remove excess skin gravity and sun exposure damage. Patients usually request for surgery to remove eyebags and to firm the lower eyelid area. In lower eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes the incision in an inconspicuous site along the lashline and smile creases of the lower lid. This is a very effective way of performing the surgery without leaving any obvious scarring.
Facial surgery
The face as a whole must be considered if the optimum outcome of cosmetic surgery is to be achieved. A facelift can help rejuvenate the lower face, giving it a fresher, healthier appearance. The face lift works well for the jaw line and the neck. By improving facial muscle tone, you can literally lift years off your face. Muscles, fat and deep tissues of the face are all lifted and repositioned so skin is draped over more youthful contours. Most surgeons agree that the best time for the first facial cosmetic surgery is whenever it is needed. Microdermabrassion and non surgical face lifts are alternatives to surgery, in conjunction with a natural facial with elements such as green tea that promote skin wellness. It is also recommended to use facial and body massage therapy after treatments to relax you and speed your recovery. Face aerobics are terrific and can save money in cosmetic surgery.
Personal testimony of facial surgery
The following is a true personal testimony written by a good friend of mine, Bethany Lee, specifically for this article and with her full permission. She is keen to share her experiences with others who may read it.
I had cosmetic surgery some years ago – my first operation was for my eyes. I had very many creases around them and was unhappy with my appearance. I contacted an agent for cosmetic surgery, thinking about whole face surgery. After a discussion with her, she convinced me to start by having correction around my eyes. The operation I had was performed under local anaesthetic although this method isn't entirely suitable for many people as it is quite painful. It is possible to have it done under general anaesthesia, or 'twilight anaesthesia'. Some tie it in with other surgery such as a facelift procedure. Still, I opted for the local anaesthetic - I found it comforting to be able to talk to the surgeon and his nurse and know what was going on, but it is not for the faint hearted. The operation itself took about one and a half hours and I was able to have a cup of tea, don dark glasses and go home. I was given pain killers, antibiotics and eye ointment .
The painkillers were hardly needed. Although very bruised and swollen when I arrived home, my husband could see a remarkable difference in that the operation had completely removed my eye bags and wrinkles around the eyes. After the bruising and swelling finally went down (less than a week) the difference was amazing. I could see better and I looked so much younger. I was absolutely delighted. It set me off.
I was worried about my developing jowels. There was no doubt about it – the cosmetic surgery loomed. I contacted the same agent I had seen before, and she showed me how my face would look after surgery. This time I opted for a full face lift. The operation took 4 hours and this was done under general anaesthetic. I must admit I suffered a lot of bruising - more than most and it took about a week to settle down but after fortnight I was transformed. I found chewing sugar free dental gum useful, it helped me exercise my jaw and kept things moving. I looked better, felt better and started to look after myself more. It gave me the incentive to start exercising again. People were complimenting me on how well I looked. The incision lines were in well hidden places in my hair line and behind my ears, so there was no way anyone could actually tell that I had undergone surgery.
I was told the eye surgery would last 7 years but it is 15 years now and they still look good. Just a very slight wrinkling on the left side, which is easily correct with makeup. I have regularly used creams to keep my skin in the best possible condition. I know that people say that a cheap cream is as good as an expensive one but I refute that totally. I have bought most of the creams on the market and find that Syence is by far the most effective. This is one of the few creams that has scientifically documented proof that it thickens the skin – useful in the more mature lady! I find it invaluable, as it has kept my face very soft and near on wrinkle free.
Finally, I would say find a good cosmetic surgeon. Ask around, do not go for the cheapest or the most expensive - go for reputation. See photographs of his work if possible and ask questions. It's your money and your face – you have the right to demand the best. Naturally things can go wrong but rarely do and they can be put right. I find yoga is a great help as it keeps mind and body in tune. A good balanced diet of fresh organic fruit, vegetables and olive oil add to a healthy skin, which will always help set you on a good road to quick recovery.
You will experience a little pain but speak up and it can soon be eased. At the end of the day it will be worth it!
Article supplied by Baymaster.
For a complete and extensive guide to cosmetic surgery, please visit our web site at http://www.cosmeticsurgery.informatee.com/
Recommendations For Successful Depression Treatment
Depression is highly common, and chances are that up to half of the number of people you know have been or still are affected by depression. It is a mood response that is often brought on by strains or stresses in our lives that can affect our self-esteem, health, and well-being.
For many, depression is something that they feel they cannot talk about and for some reason may feel somewhat embarrassed by their illness. Although because of this, it is hard to statistically evaluate the number of depression sufferers there are that do not seek help and treatment, it has been reported that 80% will not seek help, but instead suffer unnecessarily.
Depression can be triggered by several factors; serious loss, financial difficulties, and a difficult relationship are just a few. Seeking professional help is essential, although there are a number of ways that you may consider doing to help yourself:
Relaxation
Throughout the day try and breathe deeply and relax. Whilst relaxing, concentrate on calm and peaceful thoughts, and also focus on positive images in your life; whether it be family, friends, or times of laughter.
Get enough light and sunshine
A lack of exposure to sunshine and light can trigger a lethargic mood. This is due to the release of a hormone called Melatonin which is produced in the dark and makes you feel worn down and sluggish.
Exercise
Many people forget about exercise when suffering from depression, or find it difficult to become inspired to do any exercise. However, it is important that you exercise daily to maintain your physical health and to improve attitude.
Positive attitude
Maintain a positive attitude and look on to how you can beat depression. Say to yourself that you CAN and WILL get better, that'll you can take one step at a time, and that you'll overcome depression, and believe in what you are saying.
Keep busy and inspired
Do activities that you enjoy doing. This may be walking in the park, reading, playing sport, or any other activity that you are interested in and that will keep you busy. Set realistic goals that you aim to achieve and strive to reach them. This will keep you inspired and you will attain a positive outlook.
Social life
Remain in regular contact with close friends and enjoy socializing with them. Your friends are there for you and will offer you moral support when you need it. Spend time with friends by engaging in activities that are worthwhile and give you satisfying feeling.
For more information on depression, we highly recommend you to check out the Depression Treatment Info website. Justin Brown runs the site along with another useful treatment site; Acne Treatment Product.