Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect people of all ages, often developing at any stage of life. It disrupts normal brain activity, leading to symptoms like twitching, body rigidity, and loss of consciousness.
However, most seizures are not emergencies and subside on their own. Experts note that nearly 80 percent of children outgrow epilepsy by adulthood, though the condition can impact concentration, attention, and impulse control, sometimes leading to aggressive behavior.
Dr. Sayli Bidkar, a pediatric neurologist, highlights various causes of epilepsy in children, including perinatal brain injuries, hypoglycemia at birth, premature birth complications, meningitis, traumatic brain injuries, structural brain abnormalities, and genetic factors.
Managing seizures involves ensuring patient safety by removing dangerous objects, placing a soft pillow under their head, turning them to their side, and avoiding any attempts to restrain or give them oral substances.
Dietary therapy, particularly the Ketogenic Diet (KD), has shown promising results in managing childhood epilepsy. However, strict medical supervision is necessary to monitor growth, kidney function, and prevent side effects like constipation and micronutrient imbalances, along with this diet.
Certain triggers, including hormonal changes, flickering lights, dehydration, sleep deprivation, and missed medications, can exacerbate seizures.
Additionally, sugary foods, carbonated drinks, extreme temperature changes, and prolonged exposure to screens should be avoided.
Despite its challenges, epilepsy management allows children to lead fulfilling lives, reducing seizures and enabling them to focus on school, play, and daily activities without constant medical intervention. With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, children with epilepsy can achieve a normal, healthy future.
Source: Hindustan Times
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
