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A diagnosis of epilepsy in childhood reshapes family life, and witnessing your child’s seizures can be profoundly distressing. Yet, hope and effective solutions are within reach. With the right medical team, a prompt and precise diagnosis, and a treatment plan specifically designed for your child, a fulfilling and active life is achievable.
What Is Pediatric Epilepsy?
Pediatric epilepsy refers to a condition where children experience repeated seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can present in many ways, from brief staring spells to full-body convulsions. Some children outgrow epilepsy, while others may require long-term care and monitoring.
Types of Epilepsy Commonly Seen in Children
Epilepsy in children can vary depending on how the brain is involved. Here are five common types:
- Absence Epilepsy
Brief seizures where the child stares blankly and becomes unresponsive for a few seconds. Often mistaken for daydreaming. - Benign Rolandic Epilepsy (BRE)
Seizures usually happen during sleep or when waking. They cause facial twitching or numbness, often on one side, and may affect speech. - Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME)
Begins in adolescence. Causes sudden muscle jerks, especially in the arms and shoulders, often just after waking. - Infantile Spasms (West Syndrome)
A rare but serious epilepsy in infants. Seizures involve quick, repeated body movements, often in clusters during sleep transitions. - Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS)
A severe form that causes frequent seizures with stiffening or sudden falls. Children may lose awareness or seem confused.
Symptoms of Pediatric Epilepsy
Seizures are the key symptom of epilepsy and result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. In children, seizures can begin suddenly, with or without warning, and typically last a few seconds to a few minutes.
Seizures can vary, but may include:
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Stiffening or jerking of muscles
- Repetitive movements (e.g. lip-smacking, chewing)
- Blank staring or unresponsiveness
- Sudden collapse (drop attacks)
- Rapid heartbeat or breathing
- Strange sensations (tingling, visual or auditory changes)
Not all seizures involve visible movements. Some may present only as altered sensations or behavior.
After a Seizure (Postictal Phase)
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Headache
- Temporary speech or memory difficulty
Each child tends to have a consistent seizure pattern. Recognizing these signs early can support timely diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes
The causes of epilepsy in children vary widely. In many cases, the exact reason isn’t immediately clear. The following are some of the more common causes:
- Genetic factors – Some types of epilepsy run in families or are linked to gene mutations.
- Brain malformations or injuries – These might occur during birth or later due to trauma or infection.
- Perinatal complications – Perinatal complications, such as oxygen deprivation during delivery or severe neonatal jaundice, can be precipitating factors for the development of seizures later in life.
- Infections – Meningitis, encephalitis, or other central nervous system infections can trigger epilepsy.
- Metabolic disorders – Though rare, some metabolic conditions can be the underlying cause.
How can pediatric epilepsy be diagnosed?
Diagnosing epilepsy involves more than spotting a seizure. Doctors will typically begin with a thorough history-taking, physical examination, and neurological examination, then recommend further investigations such as:
- Blood test to check for any underlying conditions that may be causing the child’s symptoms.
- EEG (Electroencephalogram) to study the brain’s electrical activity.
- MRI or CT scans to help understand each child’s brain activity.
- Genetic or metabolic testing, especially in younger children or when seizures are hard to control.
At Pediatric Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Center, we approach diagnosis holistically—considering medical, developmental, and family aspects—because every child’s situation is different.
Treatment Options: Personalized and Evolving
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to epilepsy. Our goal is to control seizures while minimizing side effects and supporting overall development.
Medication
Most children start with anti-seizure medication. With regular follow-ups, we adjust doses and choose the best option based on seizure type, age, and side effect profile.
Ketogenic Diet
For some children with drug-resistant epilepsy, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet under medical supervision can significantly reduce seizures.
Surgery
If medications fail to control seizures, the doctor may recommend specialized brain surgery to target the underlying cause of epilepsy in your child.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
This implantable device sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve to change brain activity and can help reduce seizure frequency over time.
Developmental & Family Support
We believe in team-based care. Pediatric Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Center works closely with physical therapists, developmental specialists, psychologists, and dietitians to support not just the child, but the entire family.
We understand the fear, the questions, and the hope that come with a diagnosis of epilepsy. Our team is here to walk with you every step of the way. From the first seizure to long-term management, we offer:
- Advanced diagnostic tools
- Multidisciplinary care under one roof
- Family-centered support and education
- Personalized treatment plans based on the latest medical evidence
Let’s Take the First Step—Together
If your child is having seizures or you’ve been told they may have epilepsy, don’t wait. Early intervention can make a big difference. Contact Pediatric Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Center today to schedule a consultation.
Because every child deserves a chance at a seizure-free future.
For more information, please contact
Super Kid’s Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 3310, 3312, 3319
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888
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