Epilepsy is a neurological condition categorized into various syndromes. This chronic, non-communicable disorder of the brain can manifest in individuals of any age and may develop at any point in their lives. The brain communicates and regulates bodily functions through electrical signals. Symptoms of epilepsy can include involuntary movements of the arms and legs, muscle stiffness, and episodes of loss of consciousness. Most seizures are not classified as emergencies and typically resolve on their own within a brief period.

According to experts, approximately 80 percent of children with epilepsy will outgrow the condition by the age of 18. Disrupted brain activity can lead to difficulties with concentration, attention, and information processing in children, often resulting in impulse control challenges that may manifest as aggressive behavior.

Dr. Sayli Bidkar, a consultant in pediatric neurology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, outlines the causes and first aid measures for epilepsy:

⦿ Perinatal brain injuries, such as those caused by hypoxia during a challenging delivery.

⦿ Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurring immediately after birth can result in hypoglycemic brain injuries.

⦿ Complications associated with prematurity, such as intraventricular hemorrhage or periventricular leukomalacia, can lead to long-term issues, including remote symptomatic epilepsy.

⦿ Children who experience brain fever, commonly referred to as meningitis, may also develop epilepsy.

⦿ Head injuries or traumatic brain injuries are prevalent causes of epilepsy in the pediatric population.

⦿ Abnormalities in brain structure during development.

⦿ Conditions such as lissencephaly (characterized by poorly formed brain convolutions) and microgyria (featuring abnormally small brain folds) exemplify these structural abnormalities.

⦿ A familial history of epilepsy may suggest a genetic predisposition.

First aid for seizures

In the event that you witness an individual having a seizure, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Remain calm and composed.

• Ensure the safety of the individual by removing any hazardous items in the vicinity.

• Loosen any restrictive clothing, such as collars, and place a soft cushion beneath their head.

• Position the individual on their side (either left or right lateral) to reduce the risk of choking.

• Avoid restraining the individual or attempting to halt their movements.

• Do not place any objects in their mouth or administer anything orally.

• Remain with the individual until the seizure has concluded.

Diet to follow

Implementing dietary therapy is an essential yet often overlooked strategy in managing childhood epilepsy. Studies indicate that dietary interventions, particularly the Ketogenic Diet (KD), can significantly improve the quality of life for affected children and their families. Dr. Vishal Chafale, a consultant in interventional neurology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, emphasizes that children following these diets can enjoy meals such as almond flour dosas, paneer bhurji, coconut ladoos, and egg-based dishes, which help ensure adherence and nutritional sufficiency. However, maintaining this diet necessitates dedication, patience, and medical oversight. It is crucial for pediatric neurologists and dietitians to monitor the child's growth, nutritional status, kidney function, and overall health to avert deficiencies or adverse effects, including constipation, acidosis, or imbalances in micronutrients.

Triggers that you should be aware of

⦿ Excitement – any factor that disrupts the normal connections between nerve cells in the brain.

⦿ Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during puberty, can influence the frequency of seizures.

⦿ Flickering or flashing lights may act as triggers, particularly in children, although this often resolves with age.

⦿ Dehydration, insufficient sleep, and irregular eating patterns.

⦿ Skipped medications.

Say ‘no’ to these

⦿ Consumption of sweets, sugary items, carbonated beverages, chocolate, tea, or coffee, as these may disrupt the body's metabolism and potentially trigger seizures.

⦿ Sudden fluctuations in temperature, such as hot baths or extremely warm weather.

⦿ Exposure to bright screens, including televisions and flashlights.

⦿ Continuous movement up and down stairs.

⦿ Allowing the child to be near any body of water.

Despite the difficulties, the benefits are significant. A child who previously experienced frequent seizures may finally have the opportunity to enjoy a typical childhood—one that allows for academic focus, social play, and a life free from constant medical oversight. By comprehending the underlying causes and effective management of epilepsy, children with this condition can access timely care and lead fulfilling, healthy lives.

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