Seizures Specialist

What are seizures?

The neurons in your child’s brain are constantly communicating with one another through rapid electrical impulses. However, when that electrical activity becomes disrupted, unusual brain changes take place. These changes are called seizures, and they can occur in people of all ages, including infants. 

There are many types of seizures, and symptoms can vary from one person to the next, or even from one seizure to the next. Childhood fevers are a common cause of a form of seizure called a febrile seizure. 

When a child experiences two or more seizures that don’t have a clear cause, they’re usually diagnosed with epilepsy. 

How do I know if my child is having a seizure?

Television shows and movies have led people to believe that a seizure always looks like a violent jerking of limbs and foaming at the mouth. While these symptoms certainly can indicate a seizure, many of the signs are far less dramatic. 

Some indications that a child may be having a seizure include:

• Staring off into space
• Stiffening of the body
• Breathing difficulties or stopping breathing
• Sudden falls, with or without loss of consciousness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Confusion
• Rapid eye blinking
• Not responding to sounds or words

If your child seems to be experiencing a seizure, take steps to clear the immediate area of dangerous objects. Turn your child on one side to help keep their airway clear. Don’t try to hold the child down, and never place anything in their mouth. Try to remember to time the seizure so you can share that information with Dr. Hasson. 

What treatments can help with seizures?

Dr. Hasson begins by evaluating your child’s symptoms and performing a neurological exam to try to determine the type and cause of the seizures. That information shapes the treatment plan. 

Medications can help reduce the frequency of childhood seizures. Some kids take medications daily, while others only need drug therapy for a short period of time to address the underlying cause of the seizures.

Embracing a diet high in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates has been shown to reduce seizures in both children and adults. Dr. Hasson can help you shift to this nutritional approach, which can also bring health benefits to the entire family. 

An option called vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) uses an implanted device and an external magnet to send electrical impulses to the brain. Surgery is sometimes an option, especially when other treatment efforts have failed to yield the desired results.

If you have questions or concerns about childhood seizures, book an appointment with Dr. Hasson online or by phone.