Patient's question:
My son is 11 years old and has been suffering from epilepsy for 2 years. His condition is currently stable, and his academic performance is good. However, some people say that epilepsy can lead to a decline in intelligence. Is that true?Doctor's answer:
The cognitive function changes in epilepsy patients are not significant. If there is a decline in intelligence, it can be certain that there are etiological factors of brain damage present. For example, memory difficulties may occur during abnormal brain activity. Additionally, long-term use of barbiturate and phenytoin antiepileptic drugs can also affect cognitive function. Therefore, if a patient shows progressive cognitive decline, it is important to consult a doctor for a thorough examination to rule out the possibility of certain progressive brain disorders, drug toxicity, or repeated non-convulsive status epilepticus. Regarding the learning difficulties some epilepsy children face, in addition to the aforementioned factors, they are also greatly related to the social adaptation difficulties caused by certain discrimination they encounter during learning.