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TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a disease which progresses quickly, so every day matters. Noticing signs early is key, because the sooner a baby can receive care from their doctor, the better. If you feel something isn't right with your baby, or your baby is displaying any of the early signs of SMA, trust your instincts and speak to your baby’s doctor.

Step 1

Make an appointment with your baby's doctor.

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Step 2

Be prepared
It's natural to feel anxious when talking to your doctor about your baby's development or health. To help you prepare for the discussion, follow these tips:

  • Note down key signs and concerns you have about your baby’s development.

  • Keep diary of the changes you notice and the dates they occur.

  • It can be helpful to show your doctor any videos you may have which show lost motor milestones or regression over time, or examples of other signs.

  • Beforehand, write down any questions you may have.

Step 3

Discuss your concerns
When speaking to your doctor, the more information you can give them, the better equipped they'll be to provide the best advice or point you in the right direction. Ask your doctor about next steps and what to expect.

SMA
Talk to your baby's Doctor

SYMPTOM CHECKLIST

Use our Symptom Checklist below to make a note of your baby's symptoms

Select age range:

New White Signs of SMA 0-6 Months
New White Signs of SMA 6-18 Months
SMA

WEAK LEGS & ARMS 1
Your baby's arms and legs may seem sloppy like they lack strength, and this is more noticeable in the legs. When held, they might struggle to support themselves with their legs, and struggle to stand or walk.2,3

SMA

STRUGGLES TO SIT UNSUPPORTED 2,3
When placed sitting upright, your baby might struggle to stay still for long and may lean forward or to one side.2-4 Your baby may find sitting increasingly difficult and need help.3

SMA

CAN'T ROLL OVER
When lying on their back, they might rock from side-to-side and struggle to roll on to their side or onto their tummy.3

SMA

SHAKING HANDS 2
When holding their arms out, they may have minor tremors or shakes seen in their fingers or hands.2

SMA

SLOW OR LOST PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT 2,4
They may be slow to achieve developmental milestones such as sitting without support,2-4 and may become increasingly difficult over time.4

Download your discussion guide to help prepare for conversations with your baby's doctor:

Download ‎Discussion Guide
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References

  1. Pera MC, et al. PLoS One. 2020;15(3):e0230677.  
  2. Wang CH, et al. J Child Neurol. 2007;22(8):1027–49.  
  3. Prior TW, Leach ME, Finanger E. Spinal Muscular Atrophy. 2000 Feb 24 [Updated 2019 Nov 14]. In: Adam MP, Ardinger HH, Pagon RA, et al., editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993–2020.  
  4. Kolb SJ and Kissel JT. Neurol Clin. 2015;33(4):831–46.