What is epilepsy in children?
Epilepsy is a brain condition caused by a sudden burst of irregular electrical activity. While it causes seizures, not all seizures are due to epilepsy. A diagnosis usually follows more than one seizure not caused by an underlying medical condition. It is also called pediatric epilepsy or seizure disorder.
Types of epilepsy in children
Absence epilepsy
Short moments of confusion and staring into space. The child won’t be able to respond during the episode.
Rolandic epilepsy
Common when falling asleep or waking up. Causes uncontrolled movements, often on one side of the body.
Juvenile myoclonic
Common during puberty, especially upon waking up. Causes jerking or twitching movements of the arms.
Infantile spasms
Severe type affecting infants. Occurs in clusters of twitching and jerking for a few seconds each.
Symptoms and Causes
First Signs: Loss of awareness, blank stares, changes in vision/smell, or feeling unwell (upset stomach).
Physical Symptoms
Loss of consciousness, jerking/twitching, lip smacking, fast heart rate, and confusion after the event.
Possible Causes
Head trauma, birth injury, brain infections (meningitis), or genetic tendencies. Sometimes the cause is unknown.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A diagnosis involves a physical exam, neurological evaluation, blood tests, and imaging like MRI or EEG (painless test for brain waves).
Medications
Antiseizure drugs to manage frequency. It's vital to follow the prescribed schedule strictly.
Keto Diet
A high-fat, low-carb diet supervised by doctors can help regulate brain energy and reduce seizures.
Devices & Surgery
Vagus nerve stimulators or specialized surgery if medications aren't effective.
🚨 Urgent: When to go to Hospital
- If it is the child's first seizure.
- If a seizure lasts more than five minutes.
- If the child is unresponsive for more than 15 minutes after convulsions stop.
- If a second seizure starts before they recover from the first.
Water & Home Safety Tips
- Monitor your child anytime they are near water (tub, pool). Never let them swim alone.
- Keep bathroom doors unlocked and install tub seats for older children.
- Place something soft under their head during a seizure; do not restrain them.
- Ensure the school has a seizure rescue plan in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it go away? Over 60% of children outgrow epilepsy before adulthood.
Can they live a normal life? Yes! About 70% experience no developmental changes and live active lives like their peers.
A Note from Tellus Medicus
Caring for a child with epilepsy has its challenges, but you are not alone. With the right medical team and support, your child can have a fulfilling and happy childhood. Reach out to us if you see any new symptoms.