EPILEPSY Ireland has appealed to Limerick parents and caregivers to learn more about a rare type of epilepsy which can have a devastating impact on a child’s developing brain.
Infantile Spasms (IS) is a type of epilepsy that can present in children within their first two years of life. The seizures associated with IS are extremely subtle and can often be misdiagnosed for other conditions such as colic, reflux, or startle reflex.
Explaining the importance of swift action and being aware of IS, Epilepsy Ireland advocacy and communications manager Paddy McGeoghegan said IS is “characterised by repetitive but often subtle movements such as jerking of the mid-section, dropping of the head, raising of the arms, or wide-eyed blinks”.
“If overlooked and left undiagnosed and untreated, IS can cause permanent damage to a child’s developing brain. Recognising the signs and seeking immediate medical attention can significantly improve outcomes for affected children.
“Early detection and treatment of IS can change lives for children and their families so please take a moment to learn more about the disorder,” he said.
Epilepsy Ireland said it is “urging everyone – particularly new and expectant parents, as well as healthcare professionals – to be aware of Infantile Spasms and the key word of STOP” – See the signs, Take a video – Obtain diagnosis – Prioritise treatment.
For more information on how to recognise Infantile Spasms and to read about the experiences of families who have been affected by the condition, log on to epilepsy.ie.