Patient's question:
The patient had two severe episodes in September and December 2005. During the episodes, they would suddenly fall to the ground, with clenched jaws, convulsions in all limbs, purple complexion, rolling eyes, and the episodes lasting for 2-3 minutes. They would also lose control of urination during the episodes, lose consciousness, and feel lethargic after regaining their senses. During the first episode, there was a little white foam at the corners of the mouth. The symptoms of the second episode were similar to the first, except there was no white foam in the mouth, and they had a fever after the episode. The interval between the first two episodes was over three months, but recently, the episodes have become more frequent, sometimes with several episodes of fainting in a day. However, the episodes are very short, lasting only a few seconds. During the episodes, they would suddenly fall as if dozing off, without convulsions or other symptoms. These past few nights, when sleeping...Doctor's answer:
Childhood EpilepsyEpilepsy, commonly known as "fainting wind," is an attack-related disease caused by various factors and is not uncommon in children. During an attack, the manifestations vary; some are generalized seizures, while others are focal seizures. During the attack, it may also differ. When seeking medical treatment, parents must describe the attack in detail to the doctor to assist in diagnosis.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is one method for diagnosing epilepsy, but its positive rate is only about 60%. If a 24-hour dynamic recording is performed, the positive rate of diagnosis can be improved. However, making a cause diagnosis can sometimes be difficult, and in some cases, after various examinations, the cause remains unclear. Once a child is diagnosed with epilepsy, medication must be taken strictly according to the doctor's prescription. During the treatment process, parents should cooperate with the doctor and pay attention to the following points:
1. Regular medication should adjust the type and dosage of medication according to the doctor's instructions. The principle is to control the seizures with the least amount of medication and the lowest dosage. The medication period should continue for 2-4 years after the seizures are controlled, and then gradually reduce and stop the medication within 1-2 years. It is essential to take medication daily. stopping or reducing the medication often leads to attacks.
2. Regular follow-up visits should be made to the hospital to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment, observe the side effects and toxic effects of the medication.
3. Pay attention to safety. Before the epilepsy is fully controlled, there is a possibility of attacks at any time. Therefore, swimming, climbing, cycling, and playing near rivers are strictly prohibited. When crossing the road, traffic rules must be followed to prevent accidents.
4. Balance rest and activity. If the child with epilepsy has normal intelligence, they should attend school and study.