EPILEPSY IN YOUNG CHILDREN

Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes a child to have seizures.
It is one of the most common disorders of the nervous system.
It affects children and adults of all races and ethnic backgrounds.
A seizure occurs when one or more parts of the brain has a burst of abnormal electrical signals that interrupt normal brain signals.
Anything that interrupts the normal connections between nerve cells in the brain can cause a seizure. This includes a high fever, high or low blood sugar, alcohol or drug withdrawal, or a brain concussion.
When a child has 2 or more seizures with no known cause, this is diagnosed as epilepsy.

Signs and Symptoms

Staring
Jerking movements of the arms and legs
Stiffening of the body
Loss of consciousness
Breathing problems or stopping breathing
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Falling suddenly for no apparent reason, especially when associated with loss of consciousness
Not responding to noise or words for brief periods
Appearing confused or in a haze
Nodding head rhythmically, when associated with loss of awareness or consciousness
Periods of rapid eye blinking and staring

HOW ARE SEIZURES TREATED?

The goal of treatment is to control, stop, or reduce how often seizures occur. Treatment is most often done with medicine. Many types of medicines used to treat seizures and epilepsy. Medicines are selected based on the type of seizure, age of the child, side effects, cost, and ease of use. Medicines used at home are usually taken by mouth as capsules, tablets, sprinkles, or syrup. Some medicines can be given into the rectum or in the nose. If your child is in the hospital with seizures, medicine may be given by injection or intravenously by vein.

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