Infantile spasms also known as West syndrome is a rare and serious type of epilepsy that affects infants. If not diagnosed and treated quickly, these seizures can cause developmental problems. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of infantile spasms can be crucial for the long-term development of your child.
Identifying the Signs Early Symptoms: Infantile Spasms
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. But, there are certain traits to look for:
Rapid jerks: These spasms usually involve the neck of the infant as well as its upper body, causing them to flex forward rapidly. Legs and arms may extend or flex rapidly.
Clustered episodes: These tend to be jerks that occur in groups of several spasms within a short period (seconds to minutes). The spasms in these clusters may occur at any time during the entire day.
Modification of expression: Babies may cry out or appear startled during the spasms.
The power of video Capturing Infantile Spasms an early diagnosis
You should act fast in the event that you suspect your child is suffering from spasms in the infant. Every second counts when it comes to ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment. This is where recording a video can be lifesaving:
Visual evidence. Noting that your child is experiencing a cluster of spasms can be extremely helpful to doctors to diagnose the problem. These small events can be missed during a doctor’s visit.
Accurate diagnosis: A clear and precise video can help doctors identify infantile spasms and differentiate them from other types of seizures, or normal baby movements.
Rapid treatment: Early diagnosis could enable quick treatment, potentially minimizing developmental delays caused by untreated spasms in infants.
If you suspect that your child has spasms, you must take action immediately.
If you suspect your baby is being prone to infantile spasms
Make a video. Utilize your camera or phone to capture as as much detail of the spasms you experience as you can.
Call your pediatrician as quick as possible. It is essential that your child visit your pediatrician. Show the video and explain your concerns.
Take your child and the video to the nearest emergency room which is geared towards children, if you have to seek out emergency medical attention.
Early Intervention is Key: Preserving your child’s future
Infantile spasms can be a cause of developmental problems like cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities. It is vital to determine the condition of your child promptly and intervene immediately to maximize the odds of recovery and milestones your child will experience. There are a variety of treatment options available for infantile spasms. This includes diets and medical regimens. If the problem is serious, surgery may also be necessary. By addressing the issue by implementing appropriate medical treatment as quickly as possible, parents can increase the likelihood of minimizing any long-term consequences and assisting their child on his or her journey to improved motor and cognitive functioning.
Don’t ignore your instincts if you think something is wrong for your child. It’s always safer than to be sorry. Your child can keep them healthy and happy by being informed of signs and symptoms of infantile strains. If you notice them, take a video and seek medical attention right away.