Infantile spasms (also called West Syndrome) is a severe and rare form of epilepsy that affects infants. If not addressed and diagnosed quickly, these seizures may result in developmental issues. As a parent, being aware of the symptoms of infantile spasms could make a world of difference to your child’s development.
Identifying the Signs The Symptoms of Infantile Spasms
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. But, there are certain traits to look for:
Sudden jerks. The spasms are typically experienced in the neck and upper part of a baby, which causes them to quickly move forward. The legs and arms could also flex or extend rapidly.
A cluster of episodes : These snaps may occur in clusters of multiple spasms over a short duration (seconds to a minute). These clusters of spasms can occur throughout the day.
Change of expression: Babies might cry or seem agitated during spasms.
The Power of Video: Capturing Spasms of infants for diagnosis earlier
It is essential to be on the lookout for time if you suspect your child could be experiencing infantile spasms. In order to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment, each second counts. Video recording could save your life:
Visual evidence. Documenting your child’s experience with the spasms for a long time can be incredibly useful to doctors in diagnosing the condition. The short-term events are often overlooked by doctors during an appointment.
Accurate diagnosis: A clear video helps doctors diagnose infantile spasms, and distinguish them from other kinds of seizures as well as normal baby movements.
Rapid treatment: Early diagnosis may provide a quick treatment which could reduce the developmental delay which are caused by untreated spasms in infants.
Don’t put off: Take Action If you suspect infantile spasms
If you observe your baby experiencing infantile spasms, you should be concerned.
Take an audio or video. Utilize your camera or phone to record as as much detail of the spasms as possible.
Contact your pediatrician as soon as you can. It is essential that your child is seen by their doctor. Share the video and explain your concerns.
Seek emergency care if necessary If access to your pediatrician unavailable, take your baby and the video recording to the closest emergency center that cares for children.
Early intervention is the first step to ensuring your child’s future
Infantile spasms could be the cause to trigger significant developmental setbacks which can result in a range of issues, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy. Swift diagnosis and intervention are paramount in optimizing the prospects for your child’s recuperation and achieving the typical developmental milestones. Infantile spasms can be addressed by a variety of methods including diet changes, or medications. If the condition is more severe surgical intervention may be necessary. Parents can help their children achieve improved cognitive and motor performance by addressing the condition whenever possible.
Don’t be afraid to listen to your feeling if you have the suspicion that something could be wrong with the baby. Always prefer to be safe instead of sorry. By being aware of the signs of infantile spasms, capturing a video if you witness them, and seeking urgent medical attention, you are able to take vital steps towards ensuring your child’s health and health.