Answers to the Questions Parents Frequently Ask

The brain uses small amounts of electricity to tell other parts of the brain and the body what to do. Sometimes, for reasons we do not fully understand, there is a sudden large burst of electricity in the brain. This interrupts the brain’s normal activities, causing a change in behavior and level of alertness. This event is a seizure. The child does not feel any pain or discomfort.

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain and nervous system in which a child has recurring seizures over time. Epileptic seizures are not linked to a short-term (acute) condition such as an infection or low blood sugar or a short-term injury to the head or brain. Rather, epilepsy is suspected or diagnosed when a child has two or more seizures with no known external cause.

There are many different types of epilepsy and the diagnostic tests ordered will be based on the child’s medical and family history; the type and duration of the seizures; and other reported symptoms. Tests may include imaging exams of the brain, blood tests, urine tests and genetic testing.

Above all, it is important to remain calm and positive. Almost all types of epilepsy can be effectively managed so your child can live a long, healthy life. Talk openly to your child’s care team and ask all the questions you undoubted have. Educate yourself and your child about epilepsy and carefully follow all the instructions and recommendations given by your pediatric epilepsy specialist.

It’s very important to give your child the medications exactly as prescribed by their pediatric epilepsy specialist. Skipping a dose or stopping medications may cause seizures to resume or worsen and potentially cause your child harm.

Some children will outgrow their seizures over time while others may require lifelong treatment to control their epilepsy. There is always research going on to look for new and better ways to treat seizure disorders and, if there is a clinical trial or a newly proven treatment available, your UH Rainbow pediatric epilepsy specialist will let you know. Even over the past few years, certain medical and surgical therapies have advanced to the point where some children have been cured of their disorder.

The most important thing to do is stay calm and clear the area of any dangerous objects nearby. Do not try to restrain the child in any way but do stay with them until the seizure ends and they are fully awake. Speaking or singing softly is okay although your child may be unaware of what’s going on and unable to hear you. Call 9-1-1 if your child does not regain consciousness or the seizure lasts longer than five minutes.

Call your pediatric epilepsy specialist if you notice any marked changes in your child’s symptoms or seizures or, if you have any questions or concerns between regularly scheduled appointments. Call 9-1-1 if your child is having repeated seizures, a seizure that lasts longer than five minutes, does not regain consciousness after a seizure or has trouble breathing.

In general, if your child is over two years old and their seizures are well controlled, it is safe for them to wear a mask when required. However, when wearing a mask, your child should always be supervised in case they do have a seizure – in which case the mask should be removed to facilitate their breathing. If wearing a mask for a prolonged period of time, make sure your child takes regular breaks during which they remove the mask.

If your child’s seizures are not well controlled, there may be additional recommendations for mask safety. Talk to your child’s care team about the specific risks and benefits of masking for your child.

Based on the information currently available, the COVID-19 vaccine is safe for children 12 and older with epilepsy. However, as a common side effect of the vaccine is fever, if your child has seizures triggered by fever, you should talk to your child’s care team about the benefits and risks of having them vaccinated. If you decide to vaccinate, we strongly recommend you select a vaccination site where medical staff are available in case your child does have an adverse reaction.