“Hemiplegia” refers to paralysis of half the body caused by injury or illness, which often affects both motor function and sensory perception. Depending on what part of the brain is injured, certain parts of the body may be affected. For example, it is typical for symptoms to appear on the left side of the body if the right side of the brain is damaged and vice versa.
WHAT CAUSES HEMIPLEGIA
Generally, hemiplegia conditions fall into two categories: congenital hemiplegia, which occurs before, during or shortly after birth, and acquired hemiplegia, which happens after an accident, illness, or injury.
Acquired hemiplegia is often caused by a stroke, infection, spinal cord or traumatic brain injury and, because it happens later in life, is easier to diagnose.
Examples of accidental causes of hemiplegia include:
- Head trauma
- Injury at birth
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia, surgery, or medication
- Oxygen depletion to the brain from anaphylactic shock or choking
In regards to congenital hemiplegia, it is often more difficult to identify. However, research indicates that approximately 1 in 1,000 newborns are affected by the condition. Further, these risks significantly increase in the event of premature birth, delivery-related trauma, or when giving birth to twins, triplets, etc.
Examples of congenital hemiplegia include:
- Muscle stiffness on one-side of the body
- Frequently preferring one hand over the other
- Failure to meet usual developmental milestones
- Moving (i.e. crawling or standing) with asymmetry
- Fist-Clenching
- Difficulty maintaining balance
It is important for people who suffer from hemiplegia to be aware of their condition and take steps to protect themselves from falls and injuries.
HOW DOES HEMIPLEGIA AFFECT THE BODY?
Depending on the severity and cause of hemiplegia, the symptoms can range widely.
Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty speaking
- Inability to control the muscles on one side of the face
- Weakness, tingling sensations, or sporadic movements on one side of the body
- Standing, walking, and balance issues
- Heart problems
- Changes in behavior
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Loss of fine motor skills
HOW A HEMIPLEGIA ATTORNEY CAN HELP YOU
If you are suffering from hemiplegia due to an accident, you can find help with a Wells Trumbull attorney. A Wells Trumbull hemiplegia attorney helps victims of medical malpractice, auto accidents, work injuries, and more, helping victims to navigate the complicated legal system.
Ultimately, hemiplegia can make life more complicated.
If you have been diagnosed with hemiplegia due to an accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Obtaining legal advice and determining whether you are entitled to compensation from a hemiplegia attorney is essential. Payment for medical expenses, lost earnings and/or employment opportunities, mental and physical suffering, as well as diminished quality of life may be provided.