Doctor's Notes on Seizures in Children
Seizures are caused by abnormal brain activity that leads to a change in movement, focus or attention, or level of awareness. There are different kinds of seizures in children that can occur in different parts of the brain. Conditions that can cause seizures in children include fever, infections such as meningitis or encephalitis, neurological or developmental problems, or head trauma.
Effects of seizures may be localized (affecting only part of the body) or widespread (affecting the whole body). Associated symptoms and signs depend on the exact location of the brain that is involved but can include:
- convulsions,
- loss of awareness,
- staring or blinking,
- muscle spasms,
- repetitive movements,
- rolling eyes, and
- rhythmic jerking.
The child may be confused after the seizure and may not remember the event.
What Is the Treatment for Seizures in Children?
Most children with a first-time seizure will not be treated with seizure medications. Children who have recurrent or multiple medications may be treated with anti-seizure drugs. It is necessary to monitor drug levels in the bloodstream through frequent blood tests, and it may be necessary to adjust the medication types, combination of drugs, or dosing over several months.
Some children may benefit from a so-called ketogenic diet, which does not cure the seizure disorder but may reduce the frequency of seizures in some children. This diet must be discussed with a physician before beginning and must be supervised by the child’s medical team.
Epilepsy & Seizures : What Causes Seizures? Quiz
QuestionIf you have had a seizure, it means you have epilepsy.
See AnswerMust Read Articles:
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Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition in which the brain repeatedly discharges its nerve cells in a disordered way resulting in seizure. Epilepsy symptoms include seizures accompanied by a temporary failure of motor, sensory and mental function. Epilepsy treatment includes anticonvulsant medications. -
Febrile Seizures (Seizures and Fever)
Febrile seizures, also known as convulsions, body spasms, or shaking, occur mainly in children and are caused by fever. (Febrile is derived from the Latin febris, meaning fever.) -
Seizures (Epilepsy)
Epilepsy (seizure disorders) is a neurological condition that causes a series of jerking movements and loss of consciousness. Seizures are caused by disordered electrical activity in the brain rooted in a seizure disorder like epilepsy or a number of other primary causes. Seizures can be managed with medication. -
Seizures Emergencies
Seizures refer to uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. Symptoms of seizures range from mild to severe and can lead to death. A number of factors can lead to seizures, including brain tumor, injury, and fever. Emergency treatment for seizures can include antiseizure medications to help prevent seizures emergencies. -
What Are the Three Types of Seizures?
Seizures are caused by a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can affect how a person appears or acts, but for a short period of time. The types of seizures include generalized onset seizures, focal onset seizures, and unknown onset seizures. -
What Can Cause Seizures?
Seizures occur when there is a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that usually affects how a person appears or acts for a short time.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.