Last Updated on August 28, 2024

Causes and Symptoms of Infant Seizures

Infant seizures are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in a baby's brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, or consciousness. This may appear as repetitive jerking movements, stiffening, eye-rolling, or sudden changes in alertness or breathing patterns. Given the rapid brain development in infants, such abnormalities can lead to more severe complications if left unchecked.

Early detection and intervention are crucial for such potentially progressive conditions. While the earliest symptoms of infant seizures generally present themselves within the first few weeks of life, some may become apparent later into infancy – depending on the actual cause of the seizures. As such, it is important for concerned parents to reach out to their trusted medical providers for immediate diagnosis. 

Some medical organizations also offer support for families that need assistance. By creating a proper treatment plan, early diagnosis effectively betters the development of an affected child. It also allows the family to identify any potential medical malpractice claims against negligent healthcare providers.

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What are the First Signs of Infant Seizures?

The International League for Epilepsy has categorized seizures according to their onset and symptoms. Whereas focal onset seizures have a specific starting point, generalized onset seizures involve widespread networks from the beginning – the difference being more apparent after an electroencephalogram (EEG). 

For focal seizures, parents should be aware that these symptoms can be subtle, especially in infants. Any repeated unusual behavior that seems out of character for the child should be noted and discussed with a healthcare provider. 

For generalized seizures, parents may look out for the following symptoms:

Absence Seizures

In this type, consciousness and awareness are briefly impaired. The child's cognitive processing and responsiveness are temporarily halted, affecting their ability to maintain attention and interact. Its earliest symptoms include:

  • Blank staring
  • Sudden stopping of activity
  • Brief loss of awareness
  • Small movements like eye blinking

Myoclonic seizures

In this type, motor control is disrupted – causing sudden brief muscle contractions. This can affect a child's coordination, balance, and ability to perform fine motor tasks. Its earliest symptoms include:

  • Sudden jerking movements of arms or legs
  • Dropping objects unexpectedly
  • Appearing startled without reason

Tonic seizures

In this type, muscle tone is abruptly increased – causing stiffening. This affects a child's posture, balance, and ability to move or speak during the seizure. Its earliest symptoms include:

  • Sudden body stiffening
  • Falling if standing
  • Changes in breathing pattern
  • Possible loss of consciousness

Atonic seizures

In this type, muscle tone is suddenly lost, impacting a child's ability to maintain posture and balance. This can lead to falls and potential injuries. Its earliest symptoms include:

  • Sudden loss of muscle tone
  • Drooping of the head
  • Unexplained falls or "drop attacks"

Clonic seizures

In this type, rhythmic motor function is impaired – causing repetitive jerking movements. This affects a child's voluntary muscle control and can impact various body parts. Its earliest symptoms include:

  • Rhythmic jerking movements
  • Possible loss of consciousness
  • Difficulty breathing during the seizure

Note that affected children may be affected by a combination of these types provided above. As such, concerned parents may notice some of these initial symptoms occurring together.

What are the Main Causes of Seizures in Babies?

Seizures in infants are caused by preexisting medical conditions that may have been acquired during pregnancy or birth. While some of these conditions are not preventable, many are preventable with the proper medical guidance. Some of the more common causes of infant seizure include the following:

CONDITIONDESCRIPTION
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)Brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation and reduced blood flow to the brain. More common during difficult or prolonged labor, or in cases of placental abruption. Higher risk in premature infants and those with intrauterine growth restriction.
Intracranial hemorrhageBleeding within the brain, which can irritate brain tissue and cause seizures. More frequent in premature infants, particularly those born before 32 weeks. Also seen in cases of birth trauma or severe neonatal thrombocytopenia.
Neonatal infectionsInfections such as meningitis or encephalitis that can directly affect the brain. Higher risk in areas with limited access to prenatal care, in premature infants, or in cases of prolonged rupture of membranes during labor.
Metabolic disordersConditions affecting the body's ability to process certain substances, leading to harmful buildup or deficiencies.  More likely in infants with family history of metabolic disorders or in populations with higher rates of consanguinity.
Congenital brain malformationStructural abnormalities of the brain present at birth. Can occur sporadically but may be more common in cases of certain maternal infections, toxin exposures, or genetic predispositions.
Genetic disordersInherited conditions that can affect brain function and predispose to seizures. More likely in families with a history of genetic disorders or epilepsy, and in certain ethnic groups for specific genetic conditions.
Neonatal abstinence syndromeA group of symptoms occurring in newborns exposed to addictive drugs in utero. More common in areas with high rates of opioid use, particularly in regions affected by the opioid epidemic.
Electrolyte imbalancesAbnormal levels of electrolytes like sodium, calcium, or magnesium in the blood. Can occur in any newborn but is more common in premature infants, those with feeding difficulties, or in cases of severe dehydration.

Certain medical errors can potentially promote or exacerbate birth injuries. Careful medical management is important, especially in pediatric care. Proper training, adherence to protocols, and vigilant monitoring are crucial to prevent such errors and their consequences.

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Prognosis of Infant Seizures

Seizures can be a symptom of underlying neurological issues. In some cases, frequent or prolonged seizures also contribute to brain development problems that may lead to more severe long-term conditions.

Some conditions predicated by infant seizures include:

  1. Cerebral palsy
  2. Intellectual disabilities
  3. Autism spectrum disorders
  4. Learning disabilities
  5. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  6. Behavioral disorders
  7. Motor skill deficits
  8. Language and speech delays
  9. Visual impairments
  10. Hearing impairments

The likelihood and severity of these long-term effects depend on factors such as the cause of the seizures, their frequency and duration, the age of onset, and how quickly appropriate treatment is initiated.

Some seizures just resolve themselves – for those caused by fevers or electrolyte imbalances. Others respond well to treatment, while some may persist throughout a child’s life despite consistent medical intervention. To get a more accurate trajectory of your child’s condition, consult a doctor.

What Can Be Mistaken as Seizures in Babies?

Several conditions or behaviors in babies can be mistaken for seizures. Parents and caregivers need to be aware of these to avoid unnecessary medical interventions. Some of these conditions include:

  • Benign paroxysmal vertigo
  • Shuddering attacks
  • Infant gratification
  • Staring spells
  • Reflux
  • Tics
  • Night terrors

While these conditions are generally benign, receiving improper diagnosis and treatment could contribute to adverse results down the line. Doctors who have contributed to these potential damages may be held legally accountable.

Speak to a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.

Written By
Michael S. Porter
Personal Injury Attorney
Originally from Upstate New York, Mike built a distinguished legal career after graduating from Harvard University and earning his juris doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law. He served as a Captain in the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, gaining expertise in trial work, and is now a respected trial attorney known for securing multiple million-dollar results for his clients while actively participating in legal organizations across Upstate NY.
Legally Reviewed on August 28, 2024
Eric C. Nordby
Personal Injury Attorney
Eric, with nearly three decades of experience in personal injury litigation, holds a law degree with honors from the University at Buffalo School of Law and a Bachelor's Degree from Cornell University. His extensive career encompasses diverse state and federal cases, resulting in substantial client recoveries, and he actively engages in legal associations while frequently lecturing on legal topics.
This Article Was Professionally Reviewed
This page was Legally Reviewed by Eric C. Nordby on August 28, 2024. Our experts verify everything you read to make sure it's up to date. For information on our content creation and review process read our editorial guidelines. If you notice an error or have any questions about our content please contact us.
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