Every child is unique and reaches different milestones at their own pace and time. However, sometimes neurological problems can cause changes in behavior or delays in achieving goals. These problems involve the brain, spinal cord or nervous system and can become serious if not treated as soon as they are identified. These neurological disorders in children should be detected early because early identification of symptoms allows intervention to be initiated in children.

neurological disorders in children They may have their roots in genetic, prenatal, infectious, or even environmental factors. Some examples are most children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or autism who would have had mild early symptoms that would have been ignored as part of normal development. Therefore, it is important to know the red flags to be careful. But what are these signs? We caught up with Dr. Sonam Kothari, pediatric neurologist, co-founder and CEO of Butterfly Learning, who shares the early neurological warning signs parents should pay attention to.

Dr. Kothari shares some signs to pay attention to as parents as they may indicate early neurological red flags in children:

– In children, delays in achieving developmental milestones are often considered an external indicator of possible problems with the nervous system. To better understand the condition, it may be necessary to evaluate a child who is unable to sit at nine months or an 18-month-old child who is not yet able to stand.

– Additionally, delayed speech in children, such as the absence of letters by the age of one or the inability to speak some simple words by the age of two, may indicate an underlying problem. Developmental milestones are important, and persistent failure to meet them requires attention.

– Changes in muscle tone may also indicate neurological problems beyond developmental delays. For example, a child with low muscle tone (hypotonia) may appear floppy or have difficulty maintaining neck control. Muscle tone exists on a continuum; High muscle tone (hypertonia) can cause stiffness and difficulty moving. These physical changes often become apparent as the child grows and begins to develop new motor skills.

– Seizures are another important danger sign, although their presentation varies widely. While some seizures involve whole body shaking, others may be more subtle, such as brief staring episodes or unresponsive periods. Even small, seemingly trivial events should not be ignored, as they may indicate significant underlying brain activity.

– One of the most worrying signs for parents is the loss of previously acquired skills. If a child suddenly loses abilities such as language, movement, or social interaction, it may point to conditions such as autism or neurodegenerative disorders. For example, children who use fewer words or become less socially engaged than before should be evaluated immediately.

– Behavioral and sensory changes may also indicate neurological concerns. A child who becomes overly sensitive or desensitized to light, sounds or textures may have neurological difficulties. Similarly, frequent mood changes, irritability, or social withdrawal may indicate underlying problems that require intervention.

“It is important to understand that these symptoms often overlap or develop gradually. so regular developmental assessment Are serious,” he said.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening at 9, 18, and 30 months for early detection of delays or abnormalities. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and redirect a child’s developmental trajectory. According to the CDC, 16.5 percent of children in the United States have a disability, underscoring the importance of awareness among parents and guardians. If any concerns arise, it is important to contact a pediatrician immediately. Pediatricians can perform an initial evaluation and refer families to specialists such as neurologists or developmental pediatricians. Once diagnosed, targeted therapies such as speech, occupational or physical therapy can help children get ahead.

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