Infantile spasms (also referred to as West Syndrome) is a severe and rare form of epilepsy that is affecting infants. These seizures are brief repeated jerks which can cause lasting developmental problems when not treated and diagnosed quickly. Knowing the signs and symptoms of infantile spasms can be crucial to the future of your child.
Find the symptoms: Infantile spasms symptoms
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. But there are some specific characteristics that you should be aware of:
A sudden jerk. The spasms are generally experienced in the neck and upper part of a child, which can cause them to rapidly lean forward. Legs and arms may also flex or extend rapidly.
Clustered episodes: These tend to occur in clusters of a number of spasms over brief time (seconds to minutes). The spasms in these clusters may occur throughout the entire day.
Babies may look agitated or cry out in spasms.
The Power of Video Capturing infantile spasms in the early stages of Diagnosis
If you think your baby might be suffering from infantile spasms, time is crucial. Every minute counts towards ensuring the diagnosis is made early and treatment. The ability to record a video can save your life:
Visual evidence. The recording of your child’s having a cluster of spasms can be extremely helpful to doctors when it comes to diagnosing the issue. These brief events may be missed during a doctor’s appointment.
The video will enable doctors to make a precise diagnosis of infantile spasms, and also distinguish them from other types of seizures.
Swifter treatment: A prompt diagnosis allows for treatment to begin swiftly which could reduce the risk of delays in development that can be caused by non-treated infantile spasms.
If you suspect infantile spasms, act immediately.
If you notice your child having suspected infantile spasms
Video capture Make use of your smartphone or camera to record a clear video of the spasms. Capture as much detail as you can.
Get in touch with your pediatrician as soon as possible. It’s essential to bring your child in front of a pediatrician. Communicate your concerns, send the video and emphasize the urgency of the situation.
You should seek immediate emergency medical attention, if required. If you cannot reach your pediatric physician immediately, bring the baby and video recording to an emergency center nearby for children.
Early Intervention is the key to Preserving your child’s future
Infantile spasms are a potential source of developmental issues including cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities. It is vital to determine the condition of your child’s condition quickly and act immediately to maximize the chance of healing and milestones for your child. Spasms in infants can be treated through a variety of approaches, from dietary changes or medications. In more severe cases surgeries may be required. By promptly addressing this condition with the appropriate medical treatment, parents can increase the chances of mitigating long-term consequences and facilitating their child’s journey towards improved motor and cognitive functioning.
Do not ignore your instincts if you think there’s something wrong with your baby. It’s always better to be safe rather than to be sorry. By being aware of the signs of infantile spasms, capturing a video if you see these, and seeking prompt medical attention, you will be able to take crucial steps towards ensuring your child’s health as well as his future well-being.
