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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.

Appointments

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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

Eleni Rizakos, Psy.D., a psychologist in the Epilepsy Program, discusses epilepsy and your child's mental health.

Providers Who Treat Epilepsy and Seizure

Departments that Treat Epilepsy and Seizure

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Critical Care Medicine

With the only pediatric, cardiac and neuro-intensive care units in the immediate Washington, D.C., area, Children's National Hospital is the region's leading provider of critical care medicine for seriously ill and injured infants and children.

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Neurointerventional Radiology Program

Our Neurointerventional Radiology Program targets the tiniest spaces in a child's brain or spine using catheters and imaging to treat vascular conditions without more invasive surgery.

Neurobehavior Program

The Neurobehavior Program focuses on evaluation and management of behavioral effects associated with neurologic illness. Diseases emphasized include epilepsy, movement disorders, intellectual or developmental disabilities, migraines, and other complex neurologic and medical conditions.