Many parents assume that epilepsy in babies is always characterized by severe seizures, stiffness, or uncontrolled movements. In some cases, the symptoms actually appear to be normal everyday baby behavior.
Some signs are often dismissed as normal reflexes, sleep startles, or harmless baby habits. As a result, parents often fail to recognize the symptoms of epilepsy in infants, leading to more frequent seizures or even a significant impact on the child's development.
Therefore, it is important for parents to understand the signs of epilepsy in babies early on so that treatment can be carried out more quickly and the risk of developmental disorders can be minimized.
Mild Symptoms of Epilepsy in Babies That Are Often Mistaken for Normal Reflexes
Symptoms of epilepsy in infants don't always include seizures. In some types of epilepsy, the symptoms are mild and brief. However, these movements can occur repeatedly throughout the day.
Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
- The baby appeared to stare blankly for a few seconds and did not respond when called.
- The baby's hands, feet, or face twitch repeatedly, especially when sleeping or just waking up.
- Babies make lip smacking, chewing, or sucking movements even when they are not breastfeeding.
- The baby's head suddenly drops or the body appears to jerk briefly repeatedly.
- The baby suddenly stops breastfeeding or stops moving for a few seconds and then returns to normal.
- The baby's eyes appear to glance to one side repeatedly for no apparent reason.
Even if the symptoms of epilepsy in babies seem mild, they should not be ignored, especially if they appear in the same pattern and occur repeatedly.
Types of Epilepsy in Babies That Cause Symptoms That Are Difficult to Recognize
There are several types of epilepsy in babies that can cause invisible symptoms so they are often recognized too late.
1. Infantile Spasms
Infantile spasms are a rare and serious form of epilepsy in babies. This condition typically presents as brief, jerky movements that occur repeatedly in a series. The movements often occur when babies first wake up or before going to sleep.
2. Focal Seizure
A focal seizure occurs when abnormal electrical activity originates in only one area of the brain. Symptoms can include small movements in one part of the body, such as twitching of the hand, eye twitching, or repetitive mouth movements.
3. Absence Seizure
An absence seizure can cause a baby to suddenly become still or stare blankly for a few seconds. Once over, the baby usually returns to normal activity, so this condition is often not recognized as a seizure.
4. Generalized Seizure
Generalized seizures involve electrical activity throughout the brain. This type is usually easier to recognize because it can cause body stiffness, generalized convulsions, and even loss of consciousness.
Causes of Epilepsy in Babies That Parents Need to Understand
Epilepsy in babies can be caused by various factors, both those that occur in the womb and after birth.
Some causes you need to know include:
- Genetic factors can increase the risk of a baby experiencing disturbances in the brain's electrical activity that trigger epilepsy.
- Brain injury during delivery, lack of oxygen at birth, or premature birth can affect the baby's neurological function.
- Brain infections such as meningitis and encephalitis can also cause epilepsy in babies.
- Certain congenital brain developmental disorders or metabolic disorders can cause recurrent seizures from an early age.
However, in some cases, the cause of epilepsy in babies cannot always be known with certainty even though a medical examination has been carried out.
The Impact of Epilepsy on Infant Growth and Development If Not Treated Early
Recurrent seizures can affect the brain development of growing babies. If left untreated, this condition can lead to developmental disorders.
Some of the impacts that can occur are:
- Slow motor development such as rolling over, sitting, crawling, or walking.
- Impaired social interaction and response to the surrounding environment.
- Barriers to speech development and learning abilities as children grow older.
- Impaired concentration and cognitive function.
The more frequent seizures that occur without treatment, the greater the risk of developmental disorders. Conversely, early diagnosis, treatment, and therapy can help control seizures and support optimal child growth and development.
Examination and Treatment of Epilepsy in Infants to Control Seizures
To confirm a diagnosis of epilepsy in infants, the doctor will evaluate the movement patterns, frequency of seizures, and other symptoms experienced by the child.
Some of the examinations that can be carried out include:
- EEG (Electroencephalogram) to see the electrical activity of the brain.
- MRI or CT scan of the head to evaluate the condition of the brain structure.
- Blood or physical tests if necessary.
Epilepsy treatment generally involves anticonvulsant medications tailored to the type of epilepsy and the baby's condition. Parents also need to administer medication regularly and undergo regular check-ups to help monitor the progress and effectiveness of treatment.
When Should Parents Take Their Baby to the Doctor Immediately?
Consult a doctor immediately if:
- Babies experience repetitive movements with the same pattern.
- Movements occur many times a day.
- The baby appears to be staring blankly and is difficult to respond to.
- Parents feel that their baby's behavior or movements are unusual even though the symptoms are mild.
Don't hesitate to take your baby to the doctor if you suspect epilepsy. Early treatment can help prevent complications and support optimal child growth and development.
This article was written by Dr. Ackni Hartati, Sp.A, M.Kes (Pediatrician at EMC Pekayon Hospital).