Dr. Joy Alejo, a specialist in pediatric neurology at University College Hospital, who oversees the care of children with developmental disorders, epilepsy, and neurological diseases . She emphasized  that epilepsy should not be seen as a spiritual or enigmatic ailment but as a treatable medical condition. She highlights the importance of timely treatment to prevent long-term limitations.

Epilepsy is a chronic medical condition characterized by convulsions, which can be alarming to witness and therefore often mistaken for a spiritual issue, especially in certain cultural contexts. It is crucial for people to grasp that epilepsy is a medical problem, not a mystical one.

The condition is typically diagnosed when an individual experiences two unprovoked seizures more than 24 hours apart. It’s important to note that seizures triggered by conditions like fever or specific medical problems such as severe malaria do not fall under the epilepsy category.

Febrile seizures, for instance, are common in children under 5 years old. Other underlying health issues like meningitis or low blood sugar can also cause seizures, but these are considered provoked seizures and not indicative of epilepsy.

When it comes to the types of epilepsy, broadly speaking, there are three main categories: generalized onset epilepsy, focal onset epilepsy, and unknown onset epilepsy.

In generalized onset epilepsy, the entire body is affected during a seizure. Various factors can elevate the risk of epilepsy in children, but an understanding of the different types and associated risk factors is essential in spreading awareness and fostering early intervention, particularly on occasions like World Epilepsy Day celebrations.

Focusing on a child experiencing seizures, characterized by foaming at the mouth and jerking of the hands and legs, brings attention to the distinctive nature of focal onset epilepsy.

Unlike the more overt generalised onset epilepsy which affects the entire body during a seizure, focal onset epilepsy may manifest subtly, often originating in one hand or displaying peculiar behaviors.

These initial signs could be as minor as just one hand trembling, accompanied by the child expressing confusion and unease. Over time, this can progress to loss of consciousness and a complete convulsion. In contrast to focal onset epilepsy, where a specific area of the brain is involved, there exists a third category termed unknown-onset epilepsy.

In cases of unknown-onset epilepsy, no definitive description of the seizure event is available, making it challenging to classify within the other established types.

Through thorough evaluation of the child and neuroimaging studies, further subtypes of epilepsy can be identified.
Epilepsy in a child signifies abnormal activity within select neurons of the brain. The brain, akin to a central control system for the body’s intricate functions, relies on neurons to coordinate essential processes like heartbeat and respiration.

When a cluster of neurons undergoes damage or malfunctions, they transmit erratic signals or become overly stimulated, disrupting the coordinated transmission of information necessary for optimal brain function.
During a seizure episode marked by jerking movements, foaming at the mouth, and loss of consciousness, the root cause lies in the brain’s chaotic neuronal activity.

The simultaneous over-excitement of numerous neurons results in the observed physical manifestations, emphasizing that the origin of seizures is neurological rather than physical. Consequently, it is crucial to understand that epilepsy stems from the brain’s neuronal irregularities rather than external factors.

causes epilepsy in children :

The management of epilepsy can be a lengthy process, varying based on the underlying cause. While it may take time to find an effective treatment, medications can be used to control seizures and allow the brain’s neurons to heal and potentially prevent future seizures.

However, the success of treatment can vary, with some individuals experiencing long-term freedom from seizures while others may experience relapses. In cases where epilepsy is caused by malformations, it may be challenging to completely cure the condition.

It is generally recommended to continue treatment for at least two and a half years to ensure the brain has sufficient time to heal, even if seizures have stopped. Remission is typically declared after one year of being seizure-free, with ongoing monitoring and medication. If a patient remains seizure-free for five years, the likelihood of seizures recurring is low, and after ten years without seizures, a patient may be considered cured.

Why is treatment for epilepsy important in  early in life?

Early treatment of epilepsy is crucial, especially in childhood, as it can help prevent the long-term impacts of repeated seizures on the brain.

Any time a child experiences a seizure, some neurons are damaged due to excessive stimulation without rest. These neurons cannot be replaced once lost, as the number of brain cells present at birth is fixed.

The activity of the remaining neurons continues to improve, but if a child loses neurons during a seizure, they cannot be regenerated. This poses a significant risk because the child’s brain is still developing. The lost cells are crucial for mastering skills, learning, and adapting, essential for progress in life.

If epilepsy is left untreated, children may suffer intellectual impairment due to this neuron loss. It is essential to address epilepsy early to prevent limitations in adulthood. Individuals with epilepsy may face restrictions such as not being able to drive, perform certain jobs, swim, or operate machinery, significantly impacting their quality of life.

What lifestyle adjustments do individuals with epilepsy need to make in order to manage their condition more effectively?

It is crucial for those with epilepsy to follow their prescribed medication regimen to prevent seizures and avoid further damage to their brain cells.

Individuals with photosensitive epilepsy should avoid excessive exposure to flashing lights as it can trigger seizures. During periods of remission, it is recommended to refrain from activities such as swimming, driving, or operating machinery for safety reasons.

Adequate sleep of at least 8 hours per night is essential as sleep deprivation can trigger seizures. Stimulants such as alcohol, smoking, and illegal drugs should be avoided as they can also trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy.