Epilepsy

These seizures affect the entire brain and body. A child experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure may stiffen (tonic phase) and then have rhythmic jerking of the arms and legs (clonic phase). These seizures can last several minutes and are often followed by confusion or drowsiness.

Absence seizures are brief and may be difficult to detect. A child may stare into space for a few seconds, appearing as if they are daydreaming or “zoning out.” These seizures often go unnoticed but can occur multiple times a day and may interfere with learning and attention.

Focal seizures begin in one part of the brain and can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the brain area affected. These seizures may involve repetitive movements, such as blinking or hand movements, or changes in sensation, such as tingling or numbness.

These seizures involve sudden, brief jerks or twitches of the arms or legs. Myoclonic seizures are typically short, lasting just a few seconds, but may occur in clusters.

During an atonic seizure, a child’s muscles suddenly become limp, leading to a fall or collapse. These seizures are brief but can result in injury due to the sudden loss of muscle tone.

A rare type of seizure that occurs in infants, characterized by sudden, jerking movements of the head or body. Infantile spasms usually happen in clusters and are most common in babies under one year old.

Sudden, repetitive movements of the arms, legs, or face during a seizure.

A brief period of staring into space or loss of awareness, often seen in absence seizures.

Atonic seizures can cause a child to lose muscle control and collapse to the ground.

After a seizure, a child may appear confused, disoriented, or extremely tired.

Some seizures cause a brief or extended loss of consciousness.

Focal seizures may cause changes in sensation, such as a tingling or numb feeling in specific parts of the body.

Involuntary, repetitive movements, such as blinking, lip-smacking, or hand movements, can be a sign of certain types of seizures.

An EEG measures the electrical activity in the brain and is the most common test used to diagnose epilepsy. The test can help identify abnormal brain wave patterns that indicate seizures.

An MRI may be performed to obtain detailed images of the brain, which can help identify any structural abnormalities, such as tumors or malformations, that may be causing seizures.

Blood tests may be used to rule out metabolic or genetic conditions that could contribute to seizures.

Monitoring In some cases, a video EEG is recommended to monitor seizure activity over a longer period. This test allows doctors to observe the child during a seizure and correlate it with the EEG results.

The most common treatment for epilepsy involves the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) to help prevent seizures. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the type and severity of seizures. Your pediatrician will work with you to determine the most effective medication and dosage for your child.

Some children with difficult-to-control seizures may benefit from a ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to reduce seizures in some cases. This diet is typically recommended when medications are not effective.

VNS therapy involves implanting a device under the skin that stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck. This stimulation can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some children.

In certain cases where seizures are not controlled by medication, surgery may be considered. Epilepsy surgery aims to remove or alter the part of the brain causing seizures. This option is typically reserved for children with focal epilepsy who do not respond to other treatments.

Implementing safety measures at home and school to reduce the risk of injury during seizures.

Keeping track of seizure frequency, duration, and triggers to help adjust treatment as needed.

Providing resources and support for both the child and family to cope with the emotional impact of epilepsy.