- What is childhood absence epilepsy?
Absence epilepsy and seizures are caused by loss of consciousness (absorption, hesitation, staring blankly) . It is accompanied by bilateral synchronous, 3 Hertz rhythmic spike wave discharges, which are a special pattern in EEG. These findings are specific and typical for absence epilepsy. In this type of epilepsy, epileptic discharges originate from all areas of the brain. The age of onset of childhood absence epilepsy is between 4-10 years of age, and it is most commonly seen between 5-7 years of age. Neurological examination and development of the patients are normal. Seizures are characterized by sudden onset, loss of consciousness, short duration (4-20 seconds, rarely longer) and frequent recurrence (tens of times a day). Most of the patients are girls (70%).
- What is the frequency of the disease?
The frequency is about 10% of children with epilepsy. In other words, one in 10 children with epilepsy has absence epilepsy.
- Is this disease a genetic disease? Could it happen to your sibling too?
The disease has a genetic aspect. In 20% of patients, there is another person with epilepsy in the family. Apart from genetic factors, environmental factors can also be effective. Some of these patients are children who have had febrile seizures in the past.
- What are the characteristics of seizures?
Typical seizures are short-second-long. It starts suddenly and ends suddenly. It may take between 4-20 seconds. Loss of consciousness is bound to happen. Seizures can range from a few to hundreds of times a day. Seizures usually occur spontaneously. Seizures can be triggered by rapid breathing, especially while running or playing. If it happens while he is eating, he will stop for a moment and stare blankly, then continue eating as if nothing had happened. If he is talking, the conversation is suddenly stopped. After a few seconds it continues where it left off. Interestingly, the teacher notices some of these children first. It is noticed that he often gets distracted while listening to the lecture. Sometimes familial They don't care about these distractions. His eyes narrowed. It is perceived as normal. They may ignore it for months, thinking it will go away.
- How is this disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is easily made by taking EEG for patients complaining of diving. EEG, that is, electroencephalography, is a device consisting of 24 wires that is attached to the scalp with special fasteners. The footage directly records brain activity. It is not a harmful method like radiation. It will definitely not harm the child. Detection of typical distorted waves in these EEG recordings facilitates diagnosis.
- Is there a cure for this disease?
Yes, there is. Most patients recover, usually with medication. Some patients may be resistant. Sometimes two or even three medications may be given.
- Is this disease good or bad? Will he ever be cured?
90% of this disease is cured within two years. Seizures may last 5-6 years in patients with prolonged disease duration.
- Is there a special diet for these patients?
No, a special diet is not recommended. It is appropriate to have a healthy diet and stay away from junk food.
- What should patients pay attention to?
In cases of frequent seizures, it is essential to consult a Pediatric Neurologistspecialist.
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