Symptoms and first aid for epilepsy in children

This comprehensive guide is designed for every parent facing symptoms of epilepsy in their children. Our goal is to provide you with essential information to help you understand and manage this condition effectively.

General Information About Epilepsy

Epilepsy is characterized by sudden and uncontrolled electrical discharges in the brain neurons. These discharges can cause involuntary seizures, as well as changes in emotions and levels of consciousness. Epilepsy can occur at any age, including in children. It is important to remember that epilepsy can manifest in various forms, and each child’s diagnosis and treatment require an individualized approach.

Seizure Characteristics and Risk Factors in Children

Epilepsy in children usually manifests at an early age. The appearance of seizures varies depending on which part of the brain is involved: sometimes it is just a brief blank stare, while other times it can involve full-body jerking.

Risk Factors - What Should Be Considered?

• Family History: Presence of epilepsy or other neurological disorders in the family.
• Birth Complications: Brain injury or oxygen deficiency during birth.
• Febrile Seizures: Seizures associated with high fever; usually harmless, but frequent occurrences may increase risk.
• Brain Injuries: Severe head injuries or past infections (e.g., meningitis).
• Sleep Deprivation: In some children, lack of sleep can be a major trigger for seizures.

Epilepsy in children is divided into two groups depending on where in the brain the seizures begin:

1. Generalized seizures (Involving the entire brain)

• Tonic-Clonic Seizure: The child loses consciousness, the body stiffens, followed by rhythmic jerking movements. Sometimes the tongue may be bitten or there may be loss of bladder control.
• Absence Seizure: The child “stares blankly” or seems frozen for a few seconds, then resumes activity without any memory of the episode.
• Atonic Seizure: The muscles suddenly go limp, causing the child to fall to the ground.

2. Focal seizures (Starting in one part of the brain)

• Focal Seizure Without Awareness: The child appears confused and loses connection with the surroundings. They may perform purposeless movements, such as lip-smacking or rubbing their hands.
• Focal Seizure With Awareness: The child remains conscious but experiences unusual sensations, such as altered smells, tastes, sounds, fear, or deja vu. Brief twitching may occur on one side of the body.

First Aid During an Epilepsy

If your child experiences a seizure, staying calm and ensuring their safety is the most important step.

First Aid Principles:

1. Ensure Safety: Lay the child on a soft surface and remove any sharp or hard objects from the surrounding area.
2. Protect the Head: Place something soft, such as a sweater or pillow, under the child’s head. Do Not Intervene: Do not try to stop the movements, and never put anything in the child’s mouth.
3. Record the Time: Note the exact start and end time of the seizure.
4. After the Seizure: Once the shaking stops, turn the child onto their side (recovery position) to keep the airway clear.

When to Call Emergency Services?

• If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
• If it is the child’s first seizure.
• If the child has difficulty breathing after the seizure ends.
• If one seizure is immediately followed by another.
• If the child sustains a serious injury as a result of the seizure.

Professional Support: Epilepsy diagnosis and treatment should always be carried out by a neurologist, especially a pediatric neurologist. The doctor may prescribe medication (antiepileptic drugs), a special diet (Ketogenic Diet), or other therapies to control seizures. With proper treatment, children can live a normal, high-quality life.