Epilepsy in children – Convulsions in the child

Seizure Disorder—Child (Disorder, Seizure—Child; Epilepsy—Child)

What is a child's seizures?

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. When a child has two or more cases of seizures, this is called epilepsy. Although there are many different types of seizures, identified two main categories:

• Primary generalized epilepsy – do not have a specific center of origin;
• Partial (Focal) epilepsy – attack begins in certain areas of the brain. Usually occurs when damaged nerve cells in a specific area of ​​one of the hemispheres of the brain.

Epilepsy in children causes – Why convulsions in the child

Epilepsy causes abnormal brain function. Often it is difficult to determine the exact cause of seizures, but some factors, which may play a role in this process following:

• Genetic disease;
• Diseases of the brain or damage, eg, infection, injury, a brain tumor in a child or a brain hemorrhage.

Risk factors for epilepsy in children

Factors , which can increase the likelihood of seizures or epilepsy in a child include:

• Premature delivery or low birth weight;
• Damage to the brain during childbirth;
• Abnormal brain structure;
• Traumatic brain injury;
• Infections of the brain;
• Encephaloma;
• The history of febrile seizures in the past;
• Seizures during the first month after birth;
• A family history of epilepsy;
• Cysticercosis – infection, caused by swine tapeworm.

Epilepsy in children symptoms

The symptoms of epilepsy in children may vary depending on the type. Examples include the symptoms of childhood epilepsy:

• Aura – state, preceding the beginning of the attack, characterized by perception of strange smells or sounds, the appearance of spots before the eyes, or unusual sensations in the stomach.
• Frequent blinking or Rolling Eyes;
• Loss of consciousness;
• Repeated jerking of one limb;
• Uncontrolled muscle twitching;
• Rubbing his hands, smacking lips, shuffling clothes;
• Loss of control of the bladder or bowel;
• Drowsiness or confusion after an attack.

Diagnosis of epilepsy in children

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history of the child, and perform a physical examination. Tests may include:

• Blood tests – to find abnormal levels of various substances in the blood;
• Poyasnichnaya puncture – Selection and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from the lower back; It can be assigned to search for infection or bleeding.

To take pictures of body structures can be assigned:

• Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRT) – test, which uses magnetic waves, to make pictures of structures inside the brain;
• Computed tomography of the head (CT) – kind of X-ray inspection, wherein the computer is used , to make pictures of structures inside the head (used in some cases);

To investigate the brain activity used:

• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – test, that uses special sensors to evaluate the electrical activity of the brain;
• Magnetoencephalography (MEG).

The treatment of epilepsy in children

Treatment options include:

Medicines for epilepsy for children

There are many different types of drugs to treat seizure disorders. The appointment of the drug will be based on a particular type of seizures and symptoms of a child. Most commonly prescribed antiepileptic drugs. In some cases, antiepileptic drugs can be used in combination with other drugs.

The operation for the treatment of epilepsy in a child

If medication does not relieve, or the side effects of their reception are too severe, perhaps, need surgery. Surgery involves the removal of a brain area, which has been identified as a cause of seizures. Surgery is indicated for patients with precisely localized areas of the brain, is the cause of the attack.

Vagus nerve stimulation (RLS) epilepsy in children

It is implanted in the chest special device, providing electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve. Stimulation can prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures. The patient still needs to take medication, generally smaller doses than previously.

Ketogenic diet (The ketogenic diet)

This is a very strict diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates and proteins. This diet causes the chemical balance of the body to a state, called ketosis, which reduces the frequency of epileptic seizures. A ketogenic diet is effective for children and less effective in adults. To start this diet, you need to consult a doctor. Since the baby needs proper supply of nutrients, you need to be a dietician consultation.

Other lifestyle changes to treat epilepsy in a child

The doctor may ask you to record events, predšestvuûŝie approach, as well as the condition of the child during and after the attack. This can help to identify and eliminate the causes of (Triggers), cause of seizures. These reasons may vary, but some of them include:

• Sleep Deprivation;
• Stress;
• Hormonal changes;
• Exposure to flashing lights, such as strobe lights;
• The use of certain medications;
• Missing doses of anticonvulsant drugs.

To reduce the likelihood of an epileptic seizure in a child:

• Avoid Triggers, causing the appearance of seizures;
• Promptly let the baby anticonvulsants;
• Watch, the child normally spill;
• Help your child avoid hyperventilation, Teach him deep breathing exercises and meditation.

Other methods, helping to reduce the likelihood of convulsions in the child:

• Wear a medical bracelet child. Thus, if he will attack, the people around will understand, what is happening and be able to take appropriate steps;
• If your child often have seizures, Take action, to prevent serious injury:
  • Keep, child to swim or bathe in the bathroom alone;
  • Do not allow your child to climb stairs or play areas, where he faces a drop;
  • Talk to your doctor, to find out, what activities are safe for baby. Maybe, to avoid the need to engage in certain sports.

Prevention of epilepsy in a child

While there is no way to prevent epilepsy. You can take steps to prevent brain injuries, which may lead to seizures:

• Get regular prenatal care;
• Rest assured, that your child always wears a helmet when riding a bicycle, skateboarding, or engaging in contact sports;
• Ask your child to wear seat belts or put him in a car seat when riding in a car;
• Teach your child never to dive into the water upside down. The child must always jump into the water feet first.