Infantile spasms (also called West Syndrome) is a severe and uncommon form of epilepsy that affects infants. These seizures are short and repetitive jerks, which could cause developmental issues in the future if not identified and treated quickly. Understanding the symptoms and signs of infantile spasms is essential for the development of your child. Act today Infantile Spasms Symptoms
Infantile spasms: Signs and warning signs to watch out for
Spasms in infants are usually subtle and are often misinterpreted as normal baby movements. However, there are specific traits to look for:
A sudden jerk. The spasms are typically experienced in the neck and upper body of a child, which prompts them to quickly move inward. The legs and arms could also extend or bend rapidly.
Spasms that are clustered: These episodes are often grouped together in an extremely short amount of time (seconds or minutes). These clusters of spasms may happen throughout the daytime.
Expression changes: Babies may cry out or appear startled during the exaggerated movements.
The Power Of Video: Capturing Spasms in Infants for Early Diagnoses
You must act swiftly when you suspect your child may be experiencing infantile spasms. Every minute counts towards ensuring the diagnosis is made early and treatment. Video recording could save your life:
Visual evidence: Recording your child’s symptoms as a cluster of spasms provides doctors with an invaluable evidence-based visual proof to diagnose. These brief events may be overlooked during a doctor’s appointment.
Accurate diagnosis: Clear video allows doctors to accurately diagnose infantile spasms and differentiate them from other types of seizures or normal infant movements.
Faster treatment: A quick diagnosis allows the treatment to start quickly which could reduce the risk of developmental delays resulting from non-treated infantile spasms.
Do Something Now if You Suspect Infantile Spastics
If you notice your child being prone to infantile spasms, the following symptoms may be present:
Record the video. Use your camera or smartphone to capture as much detail of the spasms as you can.
Contact your pediatrician as soon as you can. It is important that your child visit their doctor. You should explain your concerns and provide the video. Be sure to emphasize the importance of this appointment.
Get emergency treatment if needed In the event that immediate access to your pediatrician is unavailable, take your baby and the video recorder to the closest emergency facility that treats children.
Early Intervention is the Key to ensuring your child’s future
Infantile spasms can result in serious developmental delays, such as cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. It is important to diagnose your child quickly and intervene immediately in order to maximize the chances of recovery and milestones for your child. Many treatment options are available to treat infantile spasms which range from medications to specific diet regimens and in more severe instances surgery may be warranted. Parents can help their children attain improved cognition and motor skills by treating the problem whenever possible.
Always listen to your gut if you think something is wrong with your child. It is always better to be cautious instead of being sorry. It’s crucial to know infantile spasms and symptoms, take an image of them when you happen to see them, and get immediate medical care.