Children’s Health Ireland help raise awareness for Infantile Spasms Awareness Week 1 – 7th December
What are Infantile Spasms?
Infantile Spasms are a rare but extremely serious type of seizure which approximately occur in 1 of every 2,000 children. Infantile spasms can cause catastrophic, permanent damage to a child’s developing brain.
How do these seizures present?
The seizures include repetitive but often subtle movements – including jerking of the mid-section, dropping of the head, raising of the arms or wide-eyed blinks. Infantile spasms can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed for other conditions, including colic, reflux, or a startle reflex
See the video below for a further insight on how these types of seizures can present.
When are Infantile Spasms most likely to present?
Research suggests that the onset of Infantile Spasms peak at between 4 & 6 months of age although these seizures can begin at any time in the child’s first two years.
What do I do if I suspect my child is experiencing Infantile Spasms?
If you suspect your child may be showing signs of Infantile Spasms, it is critical to remember that Infantile Spasms are a medical emergency – inform your medical team immediately.
A delay in seeking medical treatment can increase your child’s risk for brain damage and soon after the spasms begin, children may stop making developmental progress or even los skills they had previously acquired.
It is crucial that you record incidences of suspected Infantile spasms on your phone to show your Healthcare Professional as this can provide them with key insights on what your child is potentially experiencing.
Remember the key word of STOP if you think your child is experiencing Infantile Spasms.
- See the Signs
- Take a video
- Obtain diagnosis
- Prioritise treatment
You can download the awarness poster for STOP at the end of this article and please do share.
For further information on Infantile Spams, visit the Infantile Spasms Network website.