Epsom salts can prevent premature baby's cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is a movement disorder caused by brain damage before, during or after birth. It is common in babies who have early preterm birth.

In a breakthrough study led by Dr. Dwight J. Rouse of the University of Alabama, it was found that injecting magnesium sulfate solution, or more popularly known as Epsom salts, into a woman who has gone into premature labor (between 24-31 weeks) can protect the baby from developing cerebral palsy.

Although it is not clear how the magnesium works, it is believed to help in stabilizing the blood vessels, preventing damage caused by having oxygen cut off. This also helps in preventing immune system damage to the brain. Even better, obstetricians everywhere are comfortable in using magnesium sulfate, increasing the chances of it being administered properly.

The implications of this discovery are many. Not only will it save infants from developing this particularly debilitating disease that will compromise their quality of life but it will also save parents from the heartache and challenges of having a child with special needs.

(photo credit: The Float Spa)