How Should I Cope with Severe Startle Reflex?
Startle reflex is an instinctive reaction in many newborns. It is not necessary to worry too much about it in the early stage, as it will naturally recover after a period of time. However, if the startle reflex is severe due to neurological disorders, it is important to provide appropriate comfort and massage to the child and seek further medical treatment. Once the nervous system develops fully, the startle reflex will also ease. Therefore, treatment should be tailored to the specific condition.
The startle reflex naturally disappears around 3 months after the child's birth, which is one of the instincts of newborn babies. If the startle reflex is severe, it may be due to neurological disorders, hemiplegia, arm nerve injury, or lower spinal cord injury. In such cases, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly.
Imperfect development of the nervous system can cause startle reflex. Appropriate massage and comfort can be provided, which is a normal physiological phenomenon that does not affect intellectual development. Generally, as the child grows older, the startle reflex gradually disappears after 4 months. When the baby experiences a startle reflex, the mother can gently soothe the baby's body or hands to provide a sense of security and calm them down.
If the startle reflex is severe, it is crucial to screen for underlying diseases and seek further treatment. For example, when it affects development, feeding, or sleep, and comfort measures are ineffective, it is recommended to consult a pediatric neurologist. This is especially important for babies with abnormalities at birth, such as infection or oxygen deprivation. Electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head may be necessary to rule out neurological disorders such as epilepsy.
