Alternating hemiplegia of childhood(AHC) is a very rare neurological disorder that develops usually before the first 4 years of childhood. This syndrome may be distinguish by temporary hemiplegia of varying degrees, temporary paralysis of the muscles that control eye movement, sudden involuntary movements of limbs and facial muscles and/or excessive sweating with changes in body temperature and skin color. The episodes last in between minutes and days. A variety of other neurological problems can also be assosiated with alternating hemiplegia.

Types of Alternating Hemiplegia

Some common Types of alternating hemiplegia are:
* Benign Alternating Hemiplegia - a mild form associated with migraine
* Classic Alternating Hemiplegia - the more severe form.

Symptoms of Alternating Hemiplegia:

Some common symptoms of alternating hemiplegia are:
* Temporary episodes of one-sided paralysis
* Hemiplegia
* Balance problems
* Limb paralysis
* Facial muscle paralysis
* Seizures
* Eye muscle paralysis
* Gait problems
* Excessive sweating
* Changes in body temperature
* Mental impairment

Causes of Alternating Hemiplegia

The underlying cause of alternating hemiplegia is still unknown.

Treatment for Alternating Hemiplegia:

There is still no permanent cure for either form of alternating hemiplegia. A drug therepy can be used to treat the more severe type of alternating hemiplegia which is an effort to decrease the frequency of hemiplegic episodes as well as their duration and severity.