The signs of cerebral palsy usually appear in the first few months of life, but many children are not diagnosed until age 2 or later. In general, early signs of cerebral palsy include1,2: Developmental delays. The child is slow to reach milestones such as rolling over, sitting, crawling, and walking.
What is the main cause of cerebral palsy?
Cerebral palsy is caused by a brain injury or problem that occurs during pregnancy or birth or within the first 2 to 3 years of a child's life. It can be caused by: Problems from being born too early (premature birth). Not getting enough blood, oxygen, or other nutrients before or during birth.
Can you get cerebral palsy at any age?
No matter the cause, CP occurs early in life. Symptoms often show up in the first years of a child's life. There is no condition known as late-onset CP. You can't develop this condition as an adult.
