What is AHC (Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood)?
AHC is a rare neurological disease that usually begins in the first months or years of life. It is characterized by recurrent, usually unilateral paralysis (hemiplegia), which can last from a few minutes to several days. Other symptoms include eye movement disorders, developmental delays, balance disorders and epileptic seizures.
Aids that are frequently used with AHC:
Aids and support for everyday life
As mobility in AHC patients can vary greatly (from safe walking to complete paralysis within a few minutes), assistive devices must be highly flexible:
- Flexible mobility aids: An active wheelchair or rehab buggy is essential for children with AHC, as they can suffer an attack of paralysis at any time and then need to be positioned safely immediately.
- Protection & safety: In the event of sudden dystonia or falls during an attack, safety helmets provide important protection for the head.
- Positioning aids: During periods of paralysis lasting several days, special positioning cushions or mattresses are necessary to prevent pressure points and keep the child comfortable and safe.
- Safety in the bath: As water can be a known trigger for attacks, bath lifts or shower chairs with belt systems are essential to keep the child safe during personal hygiene, even in the event of sudden onset of paralysis.
- Therapy chairs: A stabilizing therapy chair with pads helps the child to sit actively at the table on good days, but also provides sufficient support when muscle weakness sets in.
Learn more
You can find more helpful information about AHS here:
www.orpha.net