Early signs of neurological disorders in infants

When babies are very young, their brains are growing fast. That’s why it's important for parents to know what signs might indicate that something is off. Sometimes, neurological disorders impacting a baby’s brain, nerves or spinal cord can affect how a baby moves, learns or interacts with others.

Dr. Anisa Kelley, attending physician in neurology and director of the Headache Program at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, says early treatment is key. “Early intervention makes a big difference in outcomes,” she explained. “Your health care team is there to guide you and provide the support and care your baby needs.”

Below are some common neurological disorders found in babies, what signs to look for and what parents can do.

Seizures in babies

Seizures happen when the brain’s electrical signals aren’t working the right way. In babies, seizures might look different from in older kids. They may be easy to miss.

Look out for:

• Repeated jerking or twitching of the arms, legs or face.

• Sudden stiffness in the body.

• Eyes rolling back or moving side to side quickly.

• Lip-smacking or sucking not tied to feeding.

• Pauses in breathing.

• Limpness or extreme sleepiness.

Seizures can be caused by low blood sugar, infections like meningitis, problems during birth, or genetic issues. If you think your baby might be having a seizure, get medical help right away. Doctors may use tests like brain scans or EEGs to find out what’s happening.

Seizures are often treated with daily medicine. “With early treatment, many babies who experience seizures can go on to lead healthy lives,” said Dr. Kelley.

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) affects how babies move their muscles. It can be caused by brain damage during pregnancy, at birth or soon after. This damage may happen due to infections, lack of oxygen or being born too early.

Risk factors include:

• Premature birth (especially before 28 weeks).

• Low birth weight (under 5.5 pounds).

• Infections in the baby or mother.

• Difficult birth where the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen.

• Twins or triplets.

• Genetic conditions.

Possible signs of CP:

• Weak or stiff muscles

• Problems breathing at birth.

• Slow to sit, crawl, or walk.

• Favoring one side of the body

• Hands always clenched into fists.

• Trouble with balance or holding up the head.

A doctor may order an MRI to check for brain damage. If your baby has CP, early therapy is important. This may include physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy.

“While receiving a diagnosis of cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, it's important to remember that early intervention and therapy have the power to make a world of difference,” Kelley said.

Developmental delay

Every baby grows at their own pace. But if your child is far behind in reaching milestones like crawling, talking, or showing interest in others, they may have a developmental delay.

Areas to watch:

• Motor skills (rolling over, crawling, walking).

• Speech and language (babbling, speaking, understanding).

• Social skills (smiling, eye contact, playing with others).

Red flags include:

• Not rolling over by 6 months.

• Not sitting up by 9 months.

• Not speaking any words by 12 months.

• No interest in games like peek-a-boo by 1 year.

• Trouble being comforted or not showing emotions.

If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor. “Many babies develop at their own pace, but if you’re concerned, it’s a good idea to bring it up with your pediatrician or health care provider,” said Kelley.

A doctor may suggest a screening or refer your child to therapy. Early help from speech, physical or occupational therapists can make a big difference.

Why early intervention matters

The brain grows fastest in the first few years of life. That’s why early help — called early intervention — is so important. It gives babies the best chance to learn and grow.

“Starting therapies early can help maximize a child’s potential,” said Kelley. “With the right support, children can make strides in improving motor skills, communication, and independence.”

What parents can do

• Be consistent with well-child checkups.

• Watch for the warning signs listed above.

• Don’t wait — talk to your doctor if something feels off.

With early care and support, many babies with neurological challenges can thrive. As Kelley says, “The earlier the intervention, the more opportunities children have to grow, thrive and live fulfilling lives.”

• Children's health is a continuing series. This column was provided by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago.