‘I knew something was wrong’: Mum’s fight after baby’s life-changing condition dismissed as reflux
News August 27, 2025

‘I knew something was wrong’: Mum’s fight after baby’s life-changing condition dismissed as reflux

A first-time mum told her baby “screaming all night and day in pain” was normal has learned she has dystonia and cerebral palsy.

**"I knew something was wrong": Mum's Fight After Baby's Life-Changing Condition Dismissed as Reflux**

A first-time mother's instincts proved right after her baby, who was initially diagnosed with reflux, was later found to have dystonia and cerebral palsy. The new mum, who remains unnamed to protect her child's privacy, described the harrowing experience of watching her baby suffer, "screaming all night and day in pain," only to be repeatedly told that it was simply a case of severe reflux, a common ailment in infants.

Reflux, where stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, can cause discomfort and crying in babies. While often manageable, this mother felt that something more serious was at play. The baby's constant distress, far beyond what she understood as typical reflux symptoms, raised serious concerns. Despite voicing these fears to medical professionals, she was repeatedly reassured that her baby's condition was normal and would eventually resolve itself.

Driven by maternal instinct, the mother persisted in seeking answers. She tirelessly researched her baby's symptoms, documenting the frequency and intensity of the crying episodes, unusual movements, and other concerning signs. This proactive approach eventually led her to seek a second opinion from a specialist.

After thorough examinations and assessments, the specialist delivered the life-altering news: her baby was diagnosed with dystonia and cerebral palsy. Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, causing repetitive or twisting movements. Cerebral palsy, on the other hand, is a group of disorders affecting movement and muscle tone, often caused by brain damage before or during birth.

The diagnosis, while devastating, finally validated the mother's intuition that something was fundamentally wrong. The journey since has been challenging, filled with therapies, medical appointments, and the constant need to advocate for her child's specific needs. The mother is now dedicating herself to raising awareness about the importance of trusting parental instincts and seeking comprehensive medical evaluations when concerns arise. She hopes that by sharing her story, other parents facing similar situations will feel empowered to push for answers and ensure their children receive the timely and appropriate care they deserve. The experience has transformed her into a passionate advocate for early diagnosis and intervention for children with neurological conditions.
Category: Politics