A Few Reasons To Request Your Child See A Brain Specialist

As a parent, you tend to worry about everything your child does or does not do. You panic if they seem to be behaving differently than your niece and if they do not seem to be progressing at the same rate as the neighbor's child. You worry that something might be wrong with them developmentally and comb the internet for information. You need to understand that every child is different, learning skills at their own rate. However, here are some signs that you should ask your pediatrician for a referral to a brain specialist.

Regression

If your child has been regularly performing certain skills, and suddenly can't, it is a sign of regression and needs to be checked by a brain specialist. The regression can involve motor skills, vocabulary, or even emotional security. While there are bound to be a few steps back in all areas from time to time, if you notice that your child who was walking all over the place can no longer stay on their feet, it is time for help. 

Weakness

Children are little powerhouses. They push themselves to accomplish things. While a sick or tired child will not have as much strength and energy as normal, if you notice that your child appears to be weak for no reason, it should be checked out. If the weakness has come on suddenly, you should consider going to an emergency room or quick care as something is definitely wrong. Weakness is not the same as regression, your child's whole demeanor will be affected by weakness.

Seizures

If your child falls to the ground, or slumps in a chair, appears to have lost consciousness, has uncontrolled muscle spasms, and/or clenches their mouth shut, they are having a seizure. If the child has a high temperature, it is probably a febrile seizure that is nothing neurological and will not have lasting effects. Any other type of seizures should be discussed with a brain specialist. 

Quite often, there is nothing wrong with the child who exhibits any of the above symptoms. However, there could be a problem that needs to be addressed quickly to prevent any further problems. The important thing is to remain calm. Your child will feel your anxiety, and this may make the symptoms worse. Contact your pediatrician, explain what is going on, and ask to be seen as soon as possible. During the visit, you can request a referral to a brain specialist. Generally, if the problem warrants a specialist, you won't have to ask.

For more information, contact a medical office like North Texas Neuroscience Center PA.

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