Paediatric Epilepsy: Specialized Care for Seizure Management in Children
- Early detection and precise diagnosis for better seizure management.
- Child-friendly treatment plans with the latest anti-seizure medications.
- Ketogenic diet therapy and non-invasive neurostimulation options.
- Specialized paediatric epilepsy monitoring and expert-led care.
- Holistic family support for a brighter, seizure-free future.
Paediatric Epilepsy: Specialized Care for Young Minds
Expert diagnosis, advanced treatments, and compassionate support for paediatric epilepsy.
Epilepsy in children can be overwhelming for both parents and caregivers, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, children with epilepsy can lead healthy, active lives. At Vanchilingam Advanced Neurology and Stroke Care, we specialize in paediatric epilepsy management, offering advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help children and families navigate this condition with confidence.
Understanding Paediatric Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures due to abnormal brain activity. In children, epilepsy can present in various forms, ranging from mild and outgrown over time to severe cases requiring long-term management.
Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve seizure control, cognitive development, and quality of life for children with epilepsy.
Symptoms of Epilepsy in Children
Seizures in children can look different from those in adults. Common signs include:
- Staring spells or brief loss of awareness (absence seizures).
- Sudden stiffening or jerking of arms and legs (tonic-clonic seizures).
- Repeated blinking, lip-smacking, or unusual movements (focal seizures).
- Temporary confusion or unresponsiveness.
- Unusual sensory experiences such as tingling or seeing flashes of light.
Some seizures may be brief and subtle, making them easy to miss, while others can be severe and disruptive.
Common Types of Paediatric Epilepsy
Benign Epilepsy Syndromes (Childhood Epilepsy That Can Be Outgrown)
- Rolandic Epilepsy: Occurs in children aged 3-13, involving twitching or speech disruptions, usually during sleep.
- Absence Epilepsy: Causes brief staring spells, more common in children aged 4-10.
Severe Epilepsy Syndromes
- Dravet Syndrome: A rare, drug-resistant epilepsy that begins in infancy.
- Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: Causes multiple seizure types and cognitive difficulties.
Infantile Seizures
- West Syndrome (Infantile Spasms): Characterized by sudden, jerking movements and developmental delays.
- Febrile Seizures: Triggered by fever, often harmless but may indicate an underlying epilepsy disorder.
Causes and Risk Factors
Epilepsy in children may result from various factors, including:
- Genetic conditions or inherited predisposition.
- Birth complications leading to brain injury.
- Developmental brain abnormalities.
- Infections affecting the brain (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis).
- Head trauma or strokes in young children.
In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown, but early diagnosis and treatment are key to effective management.
Advanced Diagnosis for Paediatric Epilepsy
We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify seizure types and pinpoint their origin in the brain.
- Video EEG Monitoring: Captures brain wave activity and seizure patterns.
- MRI and CT Imaging: Detects structural abnormalities in the brain.
- Genetic Testing: Identifies inherited epilepsy syndromes.
- Neuropsychological Assessments: Evaluates the impact of seizures on learning and behavior.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
Every child is different, and our personalized epilepsy management plans focus on seizure control, developmental support, and quality of life improvements.
Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AED)
- First-line treatment for most paediatric epilepsy cases.
- Carefully selected based on seizure type, age, and overall health.
- Monitored for effectiveness and adjusted as needed.
Ketogenic Diet Therapy
- A medically supervised, high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that helps reduce seizure frequency, especially in drug-resistant epilepsy.
Epilepsy Surgery for Drug-Resistant Cases
- Focal Resection: Removes the part of the brain causing seizures.
- Corpus Callosotomy: Used in children with severe, drop seizures.
- Laser Therapy (LITT): A minimally invasive alternative for select cases.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
- A small implanted device that sends electrical impulses to the brain, helping to control seizures.
Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)
- A next-generation implant that detects and stops seizures in real-time.
Behavioral and Developmental Support
- Speech, occupational, and cognitive therapy for children facing developmental delays.
- Educational support programs to help with learning challenges.
Living with Paediatric Epilepsy: Support for Families
Managing epilepsy in children requires a holistic approach that extends beyond medical treatment. We provide:
- Parental education and counseling to help families navigate challenges.
- School coordination to ensure academic and social success.
- Seizure action plans to keep children safe in daily activities.
- Psychological support to address emotional well-being.
Our goal is to empower families with knowledge and strategies that help children live full, active lives despite epilepsy.
Why Choose Vanchilingam for Paediatric Epilepsy Care?
- Expert Paediatric Neurology Team: Specialists in diagnosing and treating epilepsy in children.
- Advanced Epilepsy Monitoring: Cutting-edge diagnostic tools for precise evaluation.
- Comprehensive, Child-Centered Care: Personalized treatments tailored to each child’s unique needs.
- Multidisciplinary Support: Coordinated care involving neurologists, dietitians, therapists, and educators.
- Commitment to Innovation: Bringing the latest advances in surgical, dietary, and neurostimulation therapies.
Hope, Support, and a Brighter Future
Epilepsy may be a part of your child’s life, but it doesn’t have to limit their future. At Vanchilingam Advanced Neurology and Stroke Care, we are committed to providing world-class paediatric epilepsy care – so every child has the chance to grow, learn, and thrive.
Take the first step toward better seizure management – contact us today to explore treatment options tailored to your child’s needs
Meet the Specialists
Our team of dedicated specialists brings years of expertise and a passion for delivering personalized care.
Real Experiences, Real Results
Discover how Dr. Vanchilingam Advanced Neuro & Stroke Hospital has transformed the lives of our patients. Also hear our specialists talk about the services and solutions we offer for various neurological issues.
What is paediatric epilepsy?
Paediatric epilepsy is a neurological condition in children that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures due to abnormal brain activity. It can range from mild cases that children outgrow to severe forms requiring lifelong management.
What are the common symptoms of epilepsy in children?
Seizures in children can manifest in different ways, including:
- Staring spells or brief loss of awareness (absence seizures).
- Sudden stiffening or jerking of arms and legs (tonic-clonic seizures).
- Repetitive movements like blinking or lip-smacking (focal seizures).
- Temporary confusion or unresponsiveness.
- Unusual sensations such as tingling or seeing flashes of light.
What are the different types of paediatric epilepsy / epilepsy in children?
Common types include:
- Benign Epilepsy Syndromes: Childhood epilepsies that can be outgrown, such as Rolandic Epilepsy and Absence Epilepsy.
- Severe Epilepsy Syndromes: Conditions like Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, which require long-term management.
- Infantile Seizures: Including West Syndrome (infantile spasms) and febrile seizures triggered by fever.
What causes epilepsy in children?
Paediatric epilepsy can be caused by:
- Genetic factors or inherited predisposition.
- Birth-related brain injuries.
- Developmental abnormalities in the brain.
- Infections such as meningitis or encephalitis.
- Head trauma or strokes in young children. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown.
How is paediatric epilepsy / epilepsy in children diagnosed?
A combination of advanced diagnostic tools is used, including:
- Video EEG Monitoring: Records brain activity and seizure patterns.
- MRI and CT Scans: Detects structural abnormalities.
- Genetic Testing: Identifies hereditary epilepsy syndromes.
- Neuropsychological Assessments: Evaluates how seizures impact learning and behavior.
What are the treatment options for paediatric epilepsy?
Treatment is personalized based on the child’s condition and includes:
- Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs): First-line treatment tailored to seizure type and age.
- Ketogenic Diet Therapy: A high-fat, low-carb diet proven to reduce seizures.
- Epilepsy Surgery: Procedures like focal resection, corpus callosotomy, and laser therapy for drug-resistant cases.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): An implanted device that helps regulate seizures.
- Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): A next-generation implant that detects and stops seizures in real-time.
Can a child with epilepsy live a normal life?
Yes. With proper treatment, seizure management, and support, many children with epilepsy can lead full, active lives. Early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and a supportive care team can make a significant difference.
How can parents support a child with epilepsy?
Parents can help by:
- Understanding seizure triggers and following a treatment plan.
- Educating teachers and caregivers about the child’s condition.
- Creating a seizure action plan for emergencies.
- Ensuring a safe environment while encouraging independence.
- Seeking psychological and educational support if needed.
How can I book a consultation for paediatric epilepsy treatment?
If you suspect your child has epilepsy or need expert care, contact Vanchilingam Advanced Neurology and Stroke Care through the website enquiry/appointment form or call us directly to schedule an appointment. Our specialists will guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care for the best possible outcome.
