Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in children, affecting how the brain sends and receives electrical signals. While it can be frightening for parents to witness a seizure, early diagnosis and expert care can help your child live a full, active life.
At the NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI), our team of pediatric neurologists and epileptologists in New Jersey specializes in identifying, treating, and managing epilepsy in children with compassion and precision.
What Is Pediatric Epilepsy?
Pediatric epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizures occur due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can vary from brief staring spells to full-body convulsions.
Epilepsy can appear in infancy, childhood, or adolescence, and its causes range from genetic factors to brain injuries or infections.
Common Symptoms of Epilepsy in Children
Recognizing early signs of epilepsy helps ensure timely treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden jerking or stiffening movements
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Staring spells or confusion
- Unusual sensations or behaviors
- Temporary breathing changes or muscle weakness
If your child exhibits these symptoms repeatedly, it’s important to consult a pediatric neurologist in New Jersey immediately.
How Pediatric Epilepsy Is Diagnosed
At NJPNI, diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s medical history, symptoms, and developmental milestones. Diagnostic tools may include:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): Records brain’s electrical activity to detect abnormal patterns.
- MRI or CT Scans: Identifies structural brain abnormalities.
- Genetic Testing: Helps uncover hereditary epilepsy syndromes.
- Neurodevelopmental Assessments: Evaluates cognitive and behavioral functions affected by seizures.
Our specialists take a multidisciplinary approach to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Treatment Options for Pediatric Epilepsy
Treatment for pediatric epilepsy depends on your child’s age, seizure type, and underlying cause. At NJPNI, our goal is to control seizures while minimizing side effects.
1. Anti-Seizure Medications (ASMs)
Most children achieve seizure control with one or a combination of ASMs. Our neurologists carefully tailor medication doses to minimize side effects.
2. Ketogenic Diet
For children who don’t respond to medications, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet may reduce seizure frequency.
3. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
This minimally invasive therapy uses a small implanted device to send mild electrical impulses to the brain.
4. Epilepsy Surgery
When seizures originate from a specific brain region, surgical removal of that area can be an option.
5. Neurodevelopmental & Rehabilitation Support
At NJPNI, we coordinate care with pediatric physical therapy and occupational therapy specialists to support your child’s growth and recovery.
Learn more about our Pediatric Physical Therapy Services
When to Call a Pediatric Epilepsy Specialist
Call a specialist immediately if your child:
- Has a first-time seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
- Experiences multiple seizures within a short time
- Has trouble breathing, turns blue, or doesn’t regain consciousness
- Develops new seizure types or medication side effects
Early intervention by a pediatric epilepsy specialist in New Jersey ensures the best long-term outcomes for your child.
Meet Our Pediatric Neuroscience Specialists
Living with Epilepsy: Support for Families
At NJPNI, we understand that epilepsy affects the entire family. We provide ongoing education, emotional support, and coordinated care to help parents manage daily challenges with confidence.
Our team collaborates with schools, therapists, and pediatricians to ensure your child receives consistent care and support at every stage.
Why Choose NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI)?
- Board-certified pediatric neurologists and epileptologists
- State-of-the-art EEG and neuroimaging facilities
- Personalized treatment plans for every child
- Compassionate, family-centered care
Located conveniently in New Jersey, NJPNI is a trusted name in pediatric epilepsy care, helping children thrive with advanced medical and emotional support. Contact NJPNI for Pediatric Epilepsy Consultation.
Conclusion
Epilepsy doesn’t define your child—it’s a condition that, with the right care, can be managed effectively. At NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute, we combine expertise, compassion, and the latest medical advancements to give your child the best possible quality of life.
If you suspect your child may have epilepsy or is showing seizure symptoms, don’t wait.
Schedule an appointment with NJPNI today to get expert guidance and compassionate care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What should I do if my child has a seizure for the first time?
Stay calm, move your child to a safe space, and note how long the seizure lasts. If it lasts more than 5 minutes, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. - Can epilepsy go away in children?
Yes, some children may outgrow epilepsy, especially if their seizures are well-controlled for several years. However, this depends on the type and cause of epilepsy. - Are all seizures a sign of epilepsy?
No, not all seizures indicate epilepsy. Fever (febrile seizures), infections, or head injuries can also cause seizures. A neurologist can help determine the cause. - Is pediatric epilepsy hereditary?
Some forms of epilepsy have a genetic link. Genetic testing can identify if your child’s condition is inherited. - Can my child attend school and play sports with epilepsy?
Absolutely. With proper management and support, most children with epilepsy can lead normal, active lives.
