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Can You Develop Cerebral Palsy As an Adult?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is an incurable neurological disorder that hinders body movement and muscle coordination. Development of cerebral palsy typically occurs in the fetus during pregnancy or as a result of birth complications. A traumatic injury can trigger development of cerebral palsy in a young child; however, CP can't develop in adulthood.

  1. Development

    • CP is caused by brain damage. The severity of the brain damage affects how severe each case of CP is. Some people with cerebral palsy can live relatively normal lives, while others will need a lifelong caretaker.

    Fetal Development

    • Damage to the fetus, such as fetal stroke, infection and fever, can lead to the development of CP. The fetus is most vulnerable during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.

    Birth Complications

    • Cerebral palsy development can be caused by a lack of oxygen at birth. Premature babies are also more susceptible to developing CP.

    Traumatic Injury

    • Developing CP after birth is rare, but can occur from a traumatic injury. Automobile accidents and child abuse can lead to cerebral palsy development in infants.

    CP in Adulthood

    • CP is typically a non-fatal disorder, so while you can't develop cerebral palsy in adulthood, children with CP will have to deal with cerebral palsy as adults. Fortunately, cerebral palsy is a non-progressive disorder.

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