Understanding Epilepsy: A Guide for Caregivers

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is particularly prevalent among children with autism. As a caregiver, understanding epilepsy and its management can help ensure your child’s safety and well-being. At Cortica, we’re here to guide you through this journey with expertise, compassion, and comprehensive care.

A child getting an EEG evaluation.

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizures are temporary episodes of altered brain activity that can vary widely in their presentation.

Types of Seizures:

Generalized Seizures: These affect both sides of the brain and include:
- Tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal seizures): Involve sudden loss of consciousness, muscle stiffness, and jerking movements.
- Absence seizures (formerly known as petit mal seizures): Brief lapses in awareness that may look like staring spells.
Focal Seizures: Also known as partial seizures, these occur in one specific area of the brain and include:
- Simple focal seizures: Cause unusual sensations or movements without loss of consciousness.
- Complex focal seizures: Involve altered consciousness and may include repetitive behaviors or confusion.
Unknown Seizures: If the onset of a seizure is not observed, or diagnostic tests like EEG are inconclusive, the seizure may be classified as unknown.

Other seizure types, such as atonic seizures (sudden loss of muscle tone) and myoclonic seizures (brief muscle jerks), may also occur.

Recognizing Seizure Symptoms

Seizures can manifest in various ways, depending on the type and severity. Common symptoms include:

Convulsions: Uncontrolled shaking or jerking movements of the body.
Loss of Consciousness: Periods of unresponsiveness that may last seconds or minutes.
Aura: A sensory experience, such as a strange taste, smell, or visual disturbance, that can act as a warning sign before a seizure.
Unusual Movements or Behaviors: Repetitive actions, sudden confusion, or staring spells.

For example: A child experiencing an absence seizure might suddenly stop mid-activity and appear to be staring into space for a few seconds before resuming their actions.

Strategies for Managing Epilepsy

Managing epilepsy involves a combination of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and preparedness. Here are some key strategies:

1. Medication Management Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the cornerstone of epilepsy treatment. Caregivers should:

Administer medications as prescribed.
Monitor for side effects.
Work closely with healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans as needed.

2. Seizure Tracking

Keeping a detailed record of seizures helps healthcare providers optimize treatment. Consider using a seizure diary or mobile app to document:

Frequency and duration of seizures.
Triggers or patterns.
Any associated symptoms or changes in behavior.

3. Emergency Preparedness

Knowing how to respond during a seizure is crucial:

For tonic-clonic seizures, ensure the child is in a safe environment, place them on their side, and avoid putting anything in their mouth.
Time the seizure and seek medical help if it lasts more than five minutes or if seizures occur back-to-back.

4. Lifestyle Considerations

Certain lifestyle adjustments can reduce seizure frequency and improve overall health:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Use stress management techniques.
Eat a balanced diet.
Avoid known seizure triggers, such as flashing lights or specific foods.

Cortica’s Approach to Epilepsy Care

At Cortica, we provide holistic, personalized care for children with epilepsy and their families. Our services include:

Comprehensive Evaluations: Advanced diagnostic tools, including EEG testing, to identify the type and cause of seizures.
Individualized Treatment Plans: Tailored approaches that combine medication management, lifestyle recommendations, and therapy.
Multidisciplinary Care Team: Collaboration between pediatric neurologists, developmental pediatricians, therapists, and counselors to address the child’s overall well-being.
Caregiver Support: Training and guidance to empower families in managing epilepsy at home and responding to emergencies.

Your Partners in Care

Epilepsy can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and support, you can help your child thrive. At Cortica, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that addresses your child’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about our epilepsy services or to schedule an evaluation.