What Causes Seizures in Newborns and How to Respond

Understanding Neonatal Seizures: Common Causes and Symptoms

Seizures in newborns can be alarming for parents, but understanding the underlying causes is essential for timely intervention. A variety of medical conditions may trigger neonatal seizures, including structural brain damage, central nervous system infections such as bacterial meningitis or viral encephalitis, intracranial hemorrhage, and congenital brain malformations. Metabolic imbalances also play a significant role—conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyponatremia (low sodium), hypocalcemia (low calcium), and inborn errors of metabolism are frequently linked to seizure activity in infants.

Infections and Brain-Related Conditions

Infections like purulent meningitis and viral meningitis can lead to inflammation in the brain, disrupting normal electrical activity and resulting in seizures. Similarly, any form of internal bleeding within the skull or developmental abnormalities in the brain's structure can interfere with neurological function. These conditions often require immediate diagnostic evaluation to prevent long-term complications.

Recognizing the Signs of Neonatal Seizures

Parents should be aware of the key symptoms that may indicate a seizure in a newborn. These include changes in consciousness, skin pallor or cyanosis (bluish discoloration), particularly around the lips, rolling of the eyes upward, frothing at the mouth, and involuntary twitching or jerking of the limbs or entire body. The movements may affect one part of the body or spread throughout, depending on the type and severity of the seizure.

Immediate Response for Parents

If a seizure occurs, it's crucial for caregivers to remain calm and act quickly. Position the baby on their side to prevent choking and ensure airway clearance. Avoid restraining the infant or placing anything in their mouth. Keeping the surroundings safe and monitoring breathing can help reduce the risk of injury or respiratory complications during the episode.

Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation

Early diagnosis is vital for effective treatment. Families should seek urgent care at a reputable medical facility where specialists can conduct a thorough assessment. Diagnostic tools commonly used include electroencephalograms (EEG) to monitor brain wave patterns, blood tests to check electrolyte levels and glucose, and advanced imaging techniques such as cranial ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to detect structural issues in the brain.

Tailored Treatment Based on Underlying Cause

Once the root cause is identified, healthcare providers will develop a targeted treatment plan. This may involve antibiotics for infections, medications to correct metabolic imbalances, anticonvulsant drugs to control seizures, or supportive therapies depending on the infant's specific condition. Prompt and accurate diagnosis significantly improves the prognosis and helps minimize potential developmental delays.

When to Seek Medical Help

Any suspected seizure in a newborn warrants immediate medical attention. Even brief or mild episodes should not be ignored, as they could signal a serious underlying condition. Early intervention not only addresses the immediate crisis but also supports better long-term neurological outcomes for the child.