Helpful tips for childhood epilepsy: Dr. Selvinaz Edizer on interventions for children with seizures. She is a doctor in the Pediatric Neurology department at Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital, Istanbul.
Tips for Childhood Epilepsy: Dr. Selvinaz Edizer noted that febrile seizures are often genetically determined and do not require specific treatment. The exception is in cases of high seizure frequency or family predisposition. In such instances, an EEG examination or medication may be necessary.
Dr. Edizer notes that epilepsy affects between 1 and 5% of children. The exact cause is unknown, but it may involve genetic, metabolic, or growth-related factors. It is possible that a child’s brain exhibits abnormal electrical activity, which is interpreted as epileptic seizures. Treatment for epilepsy is effective in 60–65% of cases, with 50–60% of these being benign, while 20–25% are drug-resistant.
Resistant epilepsy
Tips for childhood epilepsy: In cases of refractory epilepsy, when two or more antiepileptic drugs are ineffective, non-pharmacological treatments are recommended. These include surgery, the ketogenic diet, or vagus nerve stimulation. Surgery is effective in suitable patients but carries risks of complications. The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in protein and carbohydrates, can reduce seizures by 45–66% and sometimes improve motor and cognitive functions. Vagus nerve stimulation can reduce or eliminate seizures in patients with appropriate indications for this treatment.
Dr. Edizer also emphasized the correct intervention for children with seizures: it is important to ensure the patency of the airways, the child should be placed on a firm surface and turned on their side. Nothing should be placed in their mouth, and one should not try to pull out the tongue. If the seizures last more than 2-3 minutes, urgent medical attention should be sought. It is not recommended to immerse the child in water or pour water over them, as this can worsen the situation. Parents should be well-informed on how to act in such situations and should be in contact with the medical professionals monitoring the child.
