Infantile spasms, also known as West syndrome is a rare but serious type of epilepsy that affects infants. These seizures are brief, repetitive jerks that can result in long-term developmental issues should they not be treated quickly. Understanding the signs of infantile jerks as a parent can be the most important thing in your child’s life.
Infantile spasms: Signs and signs to look out for
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. There are some specific signs to watch out for.
The sudden jerks. The spasms can be felt in the neck or upper part of a newborn baby. This causes them to lean inward. Legs and arms may also move rapidly.
Clustered episodes : These are jerks that occur in groups of spasms that are multiple over a short duration (seconds to a minute). These clusters can occur repeatedly during the day.
Expression changes: Babies may cry or look a bit shocked when they are experiencing spasms.
The Power of Video: Capturing Spasms in Infants for Early Diagnoses
It is imperative to act fast should you suspect that your child may be experiencing spasms in the infant. The early diagnosis and treatment is dependent on every second. Video recording can be lifesaving:
Visual evidence. The recording of your child’s having spasms in a series can be incredibly useful to doctors to diagnose the problem. Sometimes, these minor events can be missed at a visit to the doctor.
Accurate diagnosis: Clear video lets doctors accurately diagnose infantile spasms, and distinguish them from other kinds of seizures, or normal baby movements.
Treatment speed: Early diagnosis could provide a quick treatment and may help to reduce developmental delays which are caused by untreated spasms in infants.
If you suspect that your child has spasms, take immediate action.
If you notice your child having suspected infantile spasms
Record a video. Make use of your camera or smartphone to capture as detailed details of the spasms you experience as you can.
Get in touch with your pediatrician as fast as you can. It is essential that your child sees their physician. Share the video and explain your concerns.
If you require emergency medical attention: If you need immediate access to a pediatrician is unavailable, you should take your baby along with the video to the nearest emergency room which treats children.
Early Intervention is Key: Preserving your child’s future
Infantile spasms can be a trigger to precipitate notable developmental setbacks that can be a result of a variety of problems, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder as well as cerebral palsy. It is crucial to identify your child’s condition quickly and act promptly to increase the likelihood of recovery and milestones your child will experience. Many treatment options are available to address infantile spasms including pharmaceutical treatments and specialized diets and in more severe instances surgery may be required. Parents can help their children improve their motor and cognitive functioning by treating the problem early enough.
Never ignore your gut instinct If you believe that something might be wrong for your child. It’s always safer instead of sorry. Your child can stay healthy and happy by being aware of the signs and symptoms of infantile sprains. If you notice them, record a video and get medical attention immediately.