Epilepsy Ireland is calling on parents to educate themselves about Infantile Spasms (IS), a rare and serious form of epilepsy that can seriously affect a child’s developing brain.
Typically, it will appear within a child’s first two years and the seizures are often subtle and easily mistaken for common infant behaviours or conditions, such as colic, reflux, or the startle reflex.
This makes early recognition critical in preventing long-term damage.
Peter Murphy, CEO of Epilepsy Ireland, has highlighted the importance of awareness and quick action:
“Infantile Spasms are marked by repetitive yet subtle movements like mid-section jerking, head dropping, arm raising, or wide-eyed blinking. If these signs are missed, the condition can lead to lasting damage to a child’s brain.
“Recognising the symptoms and seeking immediate medical advice can significantly improve outcomes for affected children.”
The appeal coincides with Infantile Spasms Awareness Week, a global campaign running from December 1st to 7th.
Epilepsy Ireland, as a member of the Infantile Spasms Awareness Network, joins organisations worldwide to promote awareness under the campaign’s central message: STOP.
The acronym STOP is a simple guide for identifying and addressing IS:
- See the signs
- Take a video
- Obtain a diagnosis
- Prioritise treatment
Murphy emphasised the life-changing impact of early intervention:
“We urge parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to familiarise themselves with IS and the STOP message.
“Learning to recognise the signs and acting quickly can make a profound difference in the lives of children and their families. Knowledge truly is the first step in improving outcomes.”
Epilepsy Ireland encourages everyone to learn more about Infantile Spasms during this awareness week.
Additional resources, including personal stories from families affected by IS, are available at www.epilepsy.ie.
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