Infantile spasms are also known as West syndrome. It is a rare but serious type of epilepsy that affects babies. These seizures are short frequent jerks, which could cause permanent developmental issues when not treated and diagnosed quickly. Knowing the symptoms of infantile jerks as a parent can make all the difference in your child’s life.
Spot the signs: Infantile spasms symptoms
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. However, there are specific features to be able to spot:
Sudden jerks: The spasms generally involve the neck and upper body, which causes them to bend forward quickly. Also, legs and arms can flex or stretch out rapidly.
Clustered episodes: These spasms typically occur in a short time (seconds or even minutes). These can happen in a series throughout the day.
Modification of expression: Babies may cry out or appear startled during the exaggerated movements.
The Power Of Video: Capturing Spasms and Movements in Infants for Early Diagnoses
It is imperative to act fast in the event that you suspect your child may be experiencing infantile spasms. The early diagnosis and treatment is dependent on every second. The ability to record a video can save your life:
Visual evidence. The recording of your child’s having an escalating series of spasms could be incredibly helpful to doctors to diagnose the problem. Sometimes, these minor moments can go unnoticed in a doctor’s visit.
The video will help doctors to make an accurate diagnosis of infantile spasms, and differentiate them from other types of seizures.
Rapid treatment: Early diagnosis can provide a quick treatment and may help to reduce developmental delays that are associated with untreated spasms among infants.
Take Action Now if You suspect that your child has spastics
If you suspect your baby is with suspected infantile spasms
Capture a video Make use of your smartphone or camera to record an accurate video of spasms, recording as much detail as is possible.
Make an appointment with your pediatrician as soon as possible In order to get your child checked by a pediatrician is essential. Be clear about your concerns, and share the video footage, and emphasize the urgency of the situation.
It is imperative to seek urgent emergency treatment, if necessary. If you can’t reach your pediatric doctor immediately, you should take your infant and the video to an emergency room nearby for children.
Early Intervention is the first step to safeguarding your child’s future
Infantile spasms are a potential reason for developmental difficulties including cerebral palsy or intellectual disabilities. To increase your child’s chances of healing and completing developmental milestones, it is crucial that you diagnose and treat them quickly. Infantile spasms can be addressed by a variety of methods, from dietary changes or medications. In more serious cases, surgery may be required. By addressing the issue with appropriate medical management whenever possible, parents can increase the likelihood of minimizing adverse effects over time and aiding their child along their journey to improve motor and cognitive functioning.
Do not ignore your gut feeling if you suspect that something is not right with your child. It’s always safer to be cautious instead of regretting. By being aware of signs of infantile spasms recording a video when you observe the signs, and seeking immediate medical attention, it is possible to make crucial steps to ensure your child’s health and future wellbeing.