The family history and the child's medical history will be obtained. A physical examination will be performed. Most of the disorders associated with hypotonia also cause other symptoms that, when taken together, will suggest a particular disorder.
Medical history questions documenting hypotonia in detail may include:
- time pattern
- When did you first notice that your baby seemed floppy?
- Was it apparent at birth?
- Did it develop suddenly or gradually?
- Have you ever noticed a pattern to the behavior (is it always the same or is it worse at certain times)?
- quality
- How exactly does the child act?
- Is the child generally limp, or only floppy in certain areas?
- other
- What other symptoms are present?
The physical examination will probably include a detailed nervous system and muscle function examination.
Diagnostic tests will vary depending on the suspected cause of the hypotonia.
AFTER SEEING YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
If a diagnosis was made of the cause of hypotonia, you may want to note that diagnosis in your child's personal medical record.
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