Epilepsy in Children: What Parents Should Know

Epilepsy in children can be daunting for parents. Having your child diagnosed with a neurological disorder that causes seizures raises critical questions about their health, safety, and quality of life. However, understanding epilepsy, its management, and how to support your child can make all the difference.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It's one of the most common neurological conditions among children, impacting approximately 1 in 26 people at some point in their lives.

Children with epilepsy experience seizures that vary in type and severity. These seizures might manifest as strange sensations, uncontrollable movements, or even temporary loss of awareness. While epilepsy can be frightening for both the child and the parent, many cases are manageable with the right treatment and support.

What Causes Epilepsy in Children?

There is no single cause for epilepsy in children—it's often linked to a variety of factors that either affect the brain's function or its development. Here are a few common causes:

• Genetics: Some forms of epilepsy run in families. Specific gene mutations may impact how brain signals are transmitted.
• Birth Injuries or Complications: Lack of oxygen during birth or brain injuries in early childhood can lead to epilepsy.
• Brain Structure Abnormalities: Conditions like cortical dysplasia (abnormal brain development) may trigger seizures.
• Head Trauma: A significant head injury can create electrical disruptions in the brain, resulting in epilepsy.
• Neurological Conditions: Certain conditions, such as cerebral palsy or strokes in childhood, increase the risk.

While understanding the cause might provide clarity, it’s important to know that epilepsy doesn’t always have a clear origin. Many cases remain idiopathic, meaning the exact cause isn’t identifiable.

Recognizing the Signs of Epilepsy in Children

Seizures are the hallmark of epilepsy, but they don’t all look the same. Recognizing the signs is essential to seeking timely medical evaluation. Here are some symptoms to look for:

Types of Seizures

• Absence Seizures: Often mistaken for daydreaming, these involve brief spells where your child may stare blankly for a few seconds without responding.
• Tonic-Clonic Seizures: These are the most dramatic, involving muscle stiffening, jerking movements, and possible loss of consciousness.
• Focal Seizures: These start in a specific area of the brain and result in unusual movements, sensations, or even emotional changes. Your child might smack their lips, pick at clothes, or display sudden feelings of fear.
• Myoclonic Seizures: These involve rapid, jerking motions of the arms or legs, often occurring shortly after waking.

If you notice any of these episodes persistently, consult a pediatric neurologist for diagnosis and evaluation.

How Epilepsy Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing epilepsy involves a step-by-step evaluation. A doctor will review your child’s symptoms, medical history, and perform several tests to confirm the diagnosis:

• Detailed Symptom Description: Keep a record of your child’s seizure episodes, noting their behavior before, during, and after the event, as well as the timeline and frequency.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG): This non-invasive test measures the brain’s electrical activity and identifies abnormal patterns associated with epilepsy.
• MRI or CT Scans: These imaging tests detect structural abnormalities in the brain that may be causing seizures.

Misdiagnosis Is Common

Non-epileptic conditions (like fainting, panic attacks, or sleep disorders) occasionally mimic seizures. For an accurate diagnosis, it’s crucial to consult specialists in pediatric epilepsy.

Treatment Options for Childhood Epilepsy

The good news is that epilepsy in most children is treatable. The appropriate treatment varies depending on the type of epilepsy and the child’s overall health.

1. Medication

For most children, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) effectively control seizures. There are a variety of medications available that target specific types of seizures. Always work closely with your neurologist to find the best fit, adjusting dosage as needed to balance seizure control with minimal side effects.

2. Ketogenic Diet

This high-fat, low-carb diet has been proven to reduce seizures in drug-resistant epilepsy. Healthcare providers can guide you in safely implementing it for your child.

3. Surgery

For a small number of children, surgical intervention may be recommended—especially when seizures consistently originate from a specific brain area. Surgery is typically considered only after medications and other interventions have failed.

4. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

A device implanted under the skin sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, reducing seizure frequency. It’s often used alongside medication.

5. Lifestyle Management

Good sleep habits, balanced nutrition, and careful management of triggers (like stress or flashing lights) can significantly reduce seizure risks.

Supporting Your Child with Epilepsy

Epilepsy affects not only the child physically but also emotionally and socially. Your role as a parent goes beyond ensuring their medical needs are met—you’ll need to advocate for their well-being at home, in school, and within the community.

1. Foster Open Communication

Talk to your child about their condition in terms they can understand. Encourage them to share their feelings, fears, and challenges.

2. Work with Schools

Meet with teachers and staff to develop individualized learning or safety plans. Provide them with seizure first-aid training and educate them about epilepsy.

3. Focus on Positivity

Help your child maintain a sense of normalcy by encouraging them to pursue hobbies, sports, or interests they enjoy. Many successful professionals and athletes have epilepsy—it shouldn’t define their potential.

Common Myths About Epilepsy (And the Truth)

Sadly, misconceptions surrounding epilepsy often lead to stigma. By educating others, you can help dispel myths. Here are a few common ones:

• Myth: Epileptic children cannot live normal lives.
• Truth: With proper treatment and support, most children live active, fulfilling lives.
• Myth: You should place something in their mouth during a seizure.
• Truth: Never put anything in a person’s mouth during a seizure—they won’t swallow their tongue, but forcing an object could cause injury.
• Myth: Epilepsy is caused by contagious diseases.
• Truth: Epilepsy is not contagious. It’s a neurological disorder, and causes vary.

Conclusion

Hearing the words “your child has epilepsy” can feel overwhelming, but rest assured that advancements in medicine, coupled with your love and support, put your child in a strong position to thrive.