Paralysis

Paraplegia

Paraplegia is known as the paralysis of the legs as it affects the patient's lower extremities. It usually originates from the lower spinal cord injury. A person typically becomes paraplegic due to a broken back from an accident or by having congenital diseases that is passed on. Spina bifida and polyneuropathy are examples of commonly seen congenital disorders that are associated with a paraplegic condition. A tumor might also result in this type of paralysis.

The good news is that there is a possibility for the nerves to be back in action if the spinal cord is not severely affected. However, chances become low as more time passes with no sensation felt in the lower part of a patient's body.

Other symptoms in addition to paralysis include problems with bladder and bowel control, limp arm and leg muscles, sexual dysfunction, difficulty breathing, numbness, tingling, and pain. A paraplegic patient may also experience difficulty in conducting central nervous system activities such as speech, vision, or balance.

Physicians diagnose paraplegia through a physical examination. Additional procedures such as a blood test, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, or an X-ray may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. Also, each paraplegia case is different depending on where on the spinal cord the injury has occurred. Hence, each case will also have a different strategy for diagnosis and treatment. The physician dealing with a paraplegic patient would usually aim to stabilize the injured spine by restoring proper alignment and expanding the affected nerves.

To do so, a patient is often assigned to a rehabilitation program that provides occupational and physical therapy. Additional specialty treatment may also be assigned depending on the severity of the case. A physician may offer to consult a speech therapist, a respiratory therapist, or a psychiatrist to provide a treatment plan for better recovery.

Stroke

A stroke strikes when blood flow in the brain either leaks out or is interrupted. This results in diminished nutrient and oxygen supply reaching the brain tissue, which in turn lowers the physical or mental functional activity of the brain. Additionally, strokes can be hemorrhagic, arising from a ruptured blood vessel or a leaking artery. Ischemic strokes are those that occur due to a blocked artery. It is a life-threatening condition that needs emergency medical attention. Strokes can often lead to weakness and paralysis on the opposite side of the damaged brain.

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