Infantile spasms can also be referred to as West syndrome. It is a rare and serious kind of epilepsy that can affect babies. These seizures are a short, repetitive jerks which can result in developmental issues later on if not treated and diagnosed promptly. As a parent, understanding the symptoms of infantile spasms could make a world of difference for your child’s future.
Spot the signs: Infantile spasms symptoms
Spasms in infants are usually subtle and could be misinterpreted as normal baby movements. There are specific signs to watch out for.
Involuntary jerks typically affect the neck and the upper portion of the body. This causes them to lean forward rapidly. The legs and arms can also move quickly.
The snaps may occur in clusters of spasms with multiple spasms, over the course of a brief time (seconds to minute). These clusters may happen repeatedly throughout the day.
Change of expression: Babies may cry or look a bit shocked when they are experiencing spasms.
The Power Of Video: Capturing Spasms in Infants for Early Diagnoses
If you suspect your baby may be experiencing infantile spasms then time is crucial. Every moment counts in ensuring early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s where capturing a video can be lifesaving:
Visual evidence: Keeping track of your child experiencing a cluster of spasms provides doctors with invaluable visual evidence for diagnosis. Sometimes, these small moments can go unnoticed in a doctor’s visit.
Accurate diagnosis: A clear video lets doctors accurately diagnose infantile spasms and differentiate them from other types of seizures, or normal baby movements.
Quicker treatment: An immediate diagnosis allows treatment to begin swiftly which could reduce the risk of developmental delays that are associated with non-treated infantile spasms.
Do Something Now if You Think You’ve seen infantile spit-up
If you observe your baby having suspected infantile spasms
Create a video. Make use of your camera or smartphone to capture as many details of the spasms as is possible.
Get in touch with your pediatrician as soon as possible. It’s essential to get your child in front of a pediatrician. Share the video and explain your concerns.
It is important to seek emergency medical attention, if required. If you cannot reach your pediatric physician immediately, bring the baby and video recording to an emergency facility nearby for children.
Early intervention is the Key to Protecting Your Child’s Future
Infantile spasms can be a source of developmental issues, such as 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 for your child. There are many options available for infantile spasms. They include diet and medication regimens. If the issue is serious, surgery may be required. When addressing this problem with appropriate medical management whenever possible parents will increase the chance of minimizing adverse effects over time and aiding their child on her journey to improved motor and cognitive performance. Learn more here Infantile Spasms Videos
Do not ignore your gut whenever you feel that something could be wrong in your child. Always be on guard. It’s essential to know infantile spasms and symptoms, take an image of them when you notice these signs and seek medical care.