Question
What are the symptoms of pediatric cerebral palsy? Can pediatric cerebral palsy affect intelligence, leading to problems such as inability to speak, walk, drool, and weak hands?
Answer
Early symptoms of pediatric cerebral palsy may include persistent crying, difficulty falling asleep, sensitivity to noise and changes in position, as well as difficulties with feeding and care. As development progresses, there may be delays and abnormalities in motor development, often accompanied by intellectual disability, language disorders, and visual impairments. With age, there may also be abnormalities in muscle tone, reflexes, and posture. In severe cases, this may lead to muscle spasms, joint deformities, dislocations, and even fractures.