Questions
What are the symptoms of infantile convulsions? Do you need to undergo an EEG to confirm the diagnosis?
Answers
The symptoms of infantile convulsions typically include sudden and strong spasms of the entire body, with the head and trunk tilting forward, the upper limbs extending forward and bending inward, and the lower limbs bending to the abdomen. The eyes may tear up during the spasms. Each spasm lasts for a short time, about 1 to 2 seconds, after which it may subside and then recur, forming a series of spasms. Some infants may have only 2 to 3 spasms, while others may have up to ten or more. After the spasms, the infant may cry and fuss. These symptoms usually occur shortly after the baby wakes up and sometimes they are very sensitive to noise. For the diagnosis of infantile convulsions, an EEG is a common examination method that helps doctors determine if there is any abnormal brain electrical activity. In addition to EEG, CT or MRI scans can be used to rule out other possible causes, such as epilepsy or tetanus. EEG is relatively inexpensive and has a minimal impact on infants. If you suspect that your child has infantile convulsions, it is recommended to consult a professional neurologist as soon as possible for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Treatment usually includes the use of antiepileptic drugs, as well as some specific treatment methods such as ketogenic diet or neural stimulation therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important for improving the prognosis of infants.