Question
A one-and-a-half-year-old infant experiences head nodding upon waking, accompanied by crying, which occurs multiple times at night and occasionally during the day but not often accompanied by crying. The child, now two years old, has not yet begun to speak and walks unsteadily. A 24-hour dynamic electroencephalogram (EEG) has been conducted, showing no abnormal waves during the head nodding upon waking, but observing a small amount of single spike-slow wave during sleep. Is this an epilepsy symptom? How should it be treated?
Answer
Based on the EEG results, the child’s current symptoms are not indicative of epilepsy. Epilepsy is caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain leading to seizures, but the child’s EEG did not show any abnormalities. It is recommended to start treatment promptly to avoid potential growth delays and intellectual impairment due to long-term recurrence. Consider seeking assistance from traditional Chinese medicine. Infant spasm can have a severe impact on the child; if not treated promptly or correctly, the condition can progress rapidly. Parents should closely monitor their child’s condition and seek medical help early on.