Question
How to treat infantile spasms?
Answer
Infantile spasms are a specific type of epilepsy that commonly occurs in infants aged 3 to 7 months. The causes may be related to birth injuries, neonatal asphyxia, viral encephalitis, intrauterine infection, congenital toxoplasmosis, congenital brain malformations, and certain metabolic diseases. Infantile spasms not only cause generalized convulsions but can also have severe impacts on intelligence. When an infant reaches 3 months old and exhibits a nodding and bending convulsion, it may be a sign of infantile spasms. Once diagnosed, treatment should begin immediately to minimize brain damage. The main treatment medications currently include nitrazepam and hormones, with better effects when used together. During the treatment process, it is important to regularly check the liver and kidney functions and blood routine under the doctor’s guidance, and gradually reduce the dosage until medication is discontinued to prevent recurrence of the disease. In addition, parents should bring their child for follow-up visits every 2-3 weeks and for checks every 3-6 months to closely monitor the side effects of the medication. Through timely treatment and regular monitoring, symptoms of infantile spasms can be effectively controlled, and the long-term impact on the child’s health can be mitigated.