Condition
Pediatric Epilepsy and Seizures
Key points about epilepsy and seizure
- A seizure occurs when one or more parts of the brain has a burst of abnormal electrical signals that interrupt normal signals.
- There are many types of seizures. Each can cause different kinds of symptoms. These range from slight body movements to loss of consciousness and convulsions.
- Epilepsy is when a person has two or more seizures with no known cause.
- Epilepsy is treated with medicine. In some cases, it may be treated with vagus nerve stimulator or surgery.
- It’s important to avoid anything that triggers seizures. This includes lack of sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are epilepsy and seizures connected?
What are the different types of seizures?
What causes a seizure in a child?
What are the signs of a seizure in a child?
How are seizures diagnosed in a child?
How are seizures treated?
How can I help my child live with epilepsy?
When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?
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Epilepsy and Seizure Treatment at Children's National Hospital
The Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program offers a complete range of individualized treatments, including minimally invasive surgery and dietary therapies to eliminate seizures that can potentially injure a child’s brain. Discover more about the treatments we offer.
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Epilepsy and Mental Health
![](https://img.youtube.com/vi/diK67V6htRo/maxresdefault.jpg)
Eleni Rizakos, Psy.D., a psychologist in the Epilepsy Program, discusses epilepsy and your child's mental health.
Meet the Providers Who Treat Epilepsy and Seizure
Patient Stories
- Darcy's Story
How outside-the-box thinking and multidisciplinary care preserved the good half of Darcy's brain.
Departments that Treat Epilepsy and Seizure
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Emergency Medicine and Trauma Services
As a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, we are uniquely qualified to provide emergency care for children, from the design of the department to our highly skilled professionals who understand the special needs of younger, smaller patients.
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Neonatology
Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.
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Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program
To treat your child's epilepsy, our program offers a complete range of individualized care plans – from minimally invasive surgery to dietary therapies. Learn more about our treatment options and how to schedule an appointment.