Seizures in Children | Causes, Symptoms, Risks, and Treatments

When the brain fails to function normally, it causes changes in attention and level of awareness. Seizures can affect only one part of the body or in some cases, it can affect the whole body. Seizures happen for several reasons. It is also essential to note that these reasons vary from person to person. Seizures in children can be different from seizures in adults.

Seizures in Children Causes

Seizures have many causes. However, there are cases of seizures in children where in the cause remains unknown. According to studies, family history can also play a vital part in developing conditions that lead to seizures. Most of the causes of seizures in children are infections such as meningitis, head trauma and cerebral palsy. Many patients also show various disorders after having a complete evaluation. These include: migraines, fainting and psychiatric disorders.

Other causes include:

• Metabolic disorders
• Disordered blood vessels
• Internal bleeding, particularly inside the brain
• Medications and drugs
• Poisons

Symptoms of Seizures

The most evident symptom is convulsions. Jerking and muscle spasms usually occur and sometimes come with difficulty in breathing and rolling eyes. The patient who experiences this is often confused after the seizure and does not remember it.

In cases of absence seizures, a child loses awareness. This is manifested by staring blankly at something and blinking rapidly. This usually starts and stops quickly. No convulsions happen and the child returns to normal when the seizure stops.

Whether a child experienced seizure for the first time or is known to have seizure disorders, it is highly recommended to consult the doctor immediately.

Risks of Seizures in Children

Seizures look terrifying and painful, but actually, it does not cause pain at all. However, it may be traumatic to children as well as to those around them. Partial seizures are frightening and can cause the child to lose control of his actions and hurt others. What’s worse is that a child can end up seriously hurting himself.

Long-term effects of seizures in children are still yet to be determined. However, many medical professionals say that seizures in children can eventually lead to serious brain damage. It is for this reason that parents should be responsible enough to have their child evaluated by a doctor immediately.

Seizures in Children Treatment

If your child suffers a seizure, you can do a few things at home before going to the doctor. Remember that your primary concern should be to protect your child from harm.

• Let the child lie down and remove any object around him that can cause harm such as glasses and pointy objects.
• Contrary to what many people do, avoid putting any object inside the child’s mouth. This can be harmful and cause injuries.
• Observe if the child is breathing. Call 911 for immediate help and attention.
• Once the seizure ends, position the child on one side. Continue to observe his breathing pattern. If the child is not breathing after the seizure stops, it is imperative that you perform CPR.

Following these essential directions can help the doctor evaluate the disorder and take the next necessary steps to treat the seizure.