Childhood epilepsy: causes, symptoms and remedies
Childhood epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by recurrent seizures in children. Epileptic seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharge in the brain, which can occur in different ways, depending on the type of epilepsy and the part of the brain involved. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms and remedies for childhood epilepsy, providing detailed information to learn to understand and manage this condition.
What is childhood epilepsy?
Childhood epilepsy is a neurological condition which manifests in the form of recurrent seizures in children. Seizures can range from episodes of loss of consciousness and seizures to brief moments of mental absence or altered perception. It is one of the most common neurological diseases in childhood and can have a significant impact on the daily life of the child and family.
Types of childhood epilepsy
There are different types of childhood epilepsy, each with its own specific features:
- focal epilepsy: seizures start in a specific area of the brain;
- generalised epilepsy: seizures affect the whole brain from the start;
- epileptic absences: short episodes of loss of consciousness without seizures;
- night epilepsy: seizures that occur predominantly during sleep.
At what age can epilepsy occur in children?
This condition can occur at any age. It can start in the first few months of life, but many forms occur between 2 and 14 years. It is important to recognise the symptoms of childhood epilepsy early in order to be able to intervene promptly with appropriate treatment.
What are the causes and symptoms?
Childhood epilepsy is a complex condition with a variety of causes and symptoms. Understanding this is crucial for early diagnosis. What are the causes and symptoms of epilepsy in children?
The causes of childhood epilepsy
The causes can be multiple and vary from case to case. The main causes are:
- genetic factors: genetic predisposition plays a significant role. Some children may inherit a tendency to develop epilepsy from one or both parents;
- brain injury: head trauma, such as accidents, can cause injury and epileptic seizures;
- infections of the central nervous system: infections such as meningitis, encephalitis and other diseases affecting the brain;
- brain malformations: abnormalities in the structure of the brain, present from birth;
- metabolic disorders: metabolic diseases such as phenylketonuria can be responsible for the development of epilepsy;
- psychological causes: although less common, psychological factors such as intense stress or emotional trauma can trigger epileptic seizures in predisposed children.
Symptoms of childhood epilepsy
The symptoms of epilepsy can vary considerably, depending on the type of seizure and the part of the brain involved. Some of the most common symptoms are:
A seizure is characterised by involuntary movements and muscle jerks. They can involve the whole body or only a part, and are often accompanied by loss of consciousness. These seizures can be frightening to watch, but it is important to stay calm and know how to intervene.
The epileptic absences are brief episodes of loss of consciousness, during which the child may appear absent or stare into space. These episodes last only a few seconds and the child usually resumes activities without remembering the event. Absences can be easily overlooked, but it is important to recognise them for proper treatment.
Some children with epilepsy may experience sensory symptoms such as visual, auditory or olfactory hallucinations. They can see flashing lights, hear sounds that do not exist or sense unusual smells. These symptoms are due to abnormal electrical discharge in sensory areas of the brain.
Behavioural changes are common in children with epilepsy. These can include irritability, aggression, confusion and difficulty concentrating. These changes can be caused both by seizures and by the anxiety and stress associated with managing the disease.
Other symptoms
In addition to the main symptoms, childhood epilepsy can occur with other signs such as:
- sleep disturbances: nocturnal seizures may interfere with sleep, causing insomnia and other disturbances;
- tiredness and fatigue: seizures and anti-epileptic drugs may cause chronic tiredness and fatigue;
- depression and anxiety: managing a chronic condition such as epilepsy can lead to emotional problems, including depression and anxiety.
What to do in the event of childhood seizures
In the event of a seizure, it is important to remain calm and follow some simple first aid measures:
- Place the child on their side to prevent suffocation, remove glasses and undo clothes if they are too tight.
- Do not attempt to block convulsive movements, but prevent their head and limbs from repeatedly banging against the floor or other surfaces, helping with pillows or something soft.
- Monitor the duration of the seizure and call for help if it lasts more than 5 minutes.
How childhood epilepsy is treated
Treatment of childhood epilepsy may include the use of anti-epileptic drugs, dietary therapies and, in some cases, surgery. The most common treatments include:
- anti-epileptic drugs: used to control seizures;
- ketogenic diet: a diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates which may help to reduce seizures in some children;
- vitamin B6 and childhood epilepsy: supplement for the treatment of the disease in some specific cases.
It is important to follow the directions of the neurologist and closely monitor your child’s response to treatment.
Diet and supplements
Diet plays a key role in the treatment of childhood epilepsy. Some foods to avoid include foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can adversely affect the brain’s electrical stability. In this context, nervous system supplements can be useful in supporting patient health.
The support of the Emilia-Romagna Region for the development of a new supplement, with the aim of improving the management of the condition in children, is an example of innovation in the field of supplements for the treatment of side effects and co-morbidities of childhood epilepsy.
The most common co-morbidities include memory problems, reduced self-esteem, fatigue, depression and sleep disorders. Conditions associated with epilepsy and anti-epileptic treatments can significantly improve with additional and supplemental therapies, which help alleviate non-neurological symptoms, promote general well-being and improve response to therapy.
Childhood epilepsy is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. It is essential to recognise symptoms early and follow the advice of your doctor to ensure a better quality of life for your child. With the right support, while it is not possible to recover from epilepsy, many children can live a normal and active life.