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When a small child suddenly has a seizure, it is natural for any parent to panic. Generally, these recurring seizures in children are directly linked to epilepsy. But experts in medical science and neurology tell a different reality.
Experts believe that it is not at all necessary that every time a child has a seizure it should be due to epilepsy only. In some children, these seizures can be an early alarm of some other major and serious problem related to the brain and nerves (Neurological Issues). The problem is that it is very difficult to identify such diseases in the beginning, because their symptoms appear very common.
Why is it difficult to recognize the early signs?
The symptoms of these deep brain related problems can confuse anyone at first glance. Sometimes it looks like epilepsy, and sometimes it seems that the child’s temperament is changing or his attention is becoming weak.
Expert Opinion: What do experts say?
“Correct information and awareness at the right time is the first step in the treatment of any disease. If a child is having frequent seizures even after being given medicines continuously, or his mental and physical development is not happening as per his age, then do not take it lightly at all. In such a situation, it is very important to reach the root of the disease instead of just suppressing the symptoms.”
— Dr. Sufi Rumi (Medical Spokesperson, Jolly Healthcare)
When does it become necessary to examine the mind in depth?
There can be many immediate reasons behind seizures, such as the child having very high fever (febrile seizures), any serious infection or any other internal disease of the body. But if certain symptoms appear again and again, then according to doctors, an in-depth examination should be immediately done by a child neurologist.
Parents should always keep an eye on these 5 major changes or symptoms in the child’s behavior:
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Staring into the void: The child suddenly becomes completely quiet for a few seconds and starts looking at the sky or in front with empty eyes. No one responds even when called.
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Sudden jerks or falls: Suddenly falling on the ground while walking without any reason or feeling strange tremors in the body while sleeping or waking up.
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Neutralization of medicines: The child is being treated for epilepsy or seizures, but there is still no reduction in the number of seizures.
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Forgetting things learned: This is the most sensitive symptom. If the child suddenly starts forgetting previously learned things, words, walking or any special skill.
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Delayed Milestones: Lagging significantly behind in speaking, sitting, walking or understanding gestures compared to other children of their age.
Delay in catching the right disease and stress on families
Diagnosing these mental problems in children is also challenging because their symptoms appear very slowly. Many times parents feel that the child is just a little naughty or does not feel like studying. Due to this confusion, many families have to go from one doctor to another.
Treatment is started, but until the root cause of the seizures is revealed, the child is not able to recover completely. Due to this delay, not only does the family suffer from mental stress and anxiety, but it also has a negative impact on the child’s future development and long-term care.
Modern tests and awareness are the real solution
Today’s medical science has advanced considerably. At present, many such modern and advanced diagnostic tests are available with the help of which doctors can easily detect even the smallest disturbances going on inside the brain. Correct identification of the disease on time has two major benefits:
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This helps the doctor to decide the exact and right treatment (targeted treatment) for the child.
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The family gets a clear guideline for future care, which eliminates their fear of the unknown.