Infantile spasms are also referred to as West syndrome. It is a rare, severe type of epilepsy that affects babies. These seizures are brief, repetitive jerks that can cause long-lasting developmental issues when not treated and diagnosed quickly. Being aware of the signs of infantile jerks as a parent can make a huge difference in your child’s development.
Infantile spasms: Signs and signs to look out for
Infantile spasms can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal baby movements. However, there are specific features to be able to spot:
The sudden jerks. The spasms are typically experienced in the neck and upper part of a newborn baby. This can cause them to rapidly lean forward. The arms and legs can be able to move swiftly.
A cluster of episodes : These snaps may occur in clusters of spasms that are multiple over the course of a brief time (seconds to minutes). These clusters of spasms may be experienced throughout the all day.
Change in expression: Babies may cry out or appear startled during the flashes.
The Power of Video: Capturing Spasms of infants for early diagnosis
It is imperative to act quickly if believe your child might be experiencing infantile spasms. The early diagnosis and treatment is dependent on each and every minute. This is where recording a video could be lifesaving:
Visual evidence When you document your child’s movements, you can provide doctors with valuable visual evidence that can help them diagnose. The short-term events are often missed by doctors during an appointment.
Accurate diagnosis: A clear and precise video lets doctors accurately diagnose infantile spasms and differentiate them from other types of seizures as well as normal baby movement.
Quicker treatment: An immediate diagnosis allows the treatment to start quickly which could reduce the risk of developmental delays that are associated with untreated infantile spasms.
If you suspect infantile spasms, you must take action immediately.
If you notice your child with suspected infantile spasms
Record an audio or video. Use your camera, or smartphone to capture as many details of the spasms you experience as you can.
Contact your pediatrician immediately: Getting your child seen by a pediatrician is essential. The doctor should discuss your concerns and share the video. Be sure to emphasize the urgency.
It is important to seek emergency treatment, if necessary. If you can’t reach your pediatrician right away, take the baby and video recording to a nearby emergency department for children.
Early intervention is essential to protecting your child’s future
Infantile spasms can be a trigger to cause serious developmental setbacks that can be a result of a variety of challenges such as autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy. In order to optimize your child’s odds of regaining and completing developmental milestones, it is imperative to recognize and treat them immediately. Different treatment methods are available to treat infantile spasms that range from medical interventions to specific diet regimens and in the more serious cases the need for surgery might be needed. When addressing this problem by implementing appropriate medical treatment whenever possible, parents can increase chances of minimizing the any long-term consequences and assisting their child along the path to improving motor and cognitive function.
Do not ignore your gut If you believe that something might be wrong in your child. It’s always better to be secure rather than regretting. By being aware of symptoms of infantile spasms, capturing a video if you witness the signs, and seeking immediate medical attention, you will be able to take crucial steps towards ensuring your child’s safety and wellbeing.