Seizures occur when brain cells become overactive, resulting in observable symptoms like staring, stiffening limbs, convulsing, and more. When they occur in children and infants, they’re known as “pediatric seizures.” Understanding the potential causes of a seizure is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. Here are three possible causes of pediatric seizures in NJ.
Possible Causes of Pediatric Seizures
1. Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures are often associated with a rapid spike in body temperature, such as the type that would accompany a fever. Typically occurring between the ages of six months and five years, these seizures are usually brief and non-life-threatening. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, febrile seizures are believed to result from the body’s response to an infection or illness, causing a sudden surge in temperature that triggers abnormal brain activity.
2. Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. While it can manifest at any age, childhood-onset epilepsy is not uncommon. Various factors, including genetic predisposition, brain injury, or infections affecting the central nervous system can contribute to the development of epilepsy in children. With a professional diagnosis, this condition is easy to manage with an individualized treatment plan.
3. Brain Injury
Pediatric seizures in NJ may also result from traumatic brain injury. Accidents, falls, or other incidents causing head trauma can lead to seizures, even if the injury occurred years before the seizures begin. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the brain injury is vital for both immediate and long-term management of seizures in these cases.
Know Your Options
If your child is experiencing seizures, it’s important to consult a professional to determine their cause and an appropriate treatment plan. For more information about pediatric seizures in NJ, contact the team of experts at the Neurology Center for Epilepsy and Seizures.
