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The Curious Bag
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Seizures are disruptions of normal brain function triggered by bursts of abnormal electrical signals. Seizures in children vary greatly in seriousness and intensity and have a number of distinct causes.
The Facts
According to Children's Hospital Boston, roughly 3 to 5 percent of children will experience seizures, with a high number of incidents occurring in a child's first year.
Causes in Newborns and Infants
Potential causes of seizures in newborns and infants include fever, infections, factors present at birth (congenital conditions), imbalances in body chemistry or metabolism and traumatic birth.
Older Children
Potential causes of seizures in young children and adolescents include congenital conditions, infections, head trauma, exposure to drugs or alcohol and genetic factors.
Additional Causes
The Nemours Foundation cites additional possible causes that include brain tumors, accidental poisoning and sudden lack of oxygen to the brain. Some children also experience seizures without any known cause.
Epilepsy
Children with epilepsy have underlying nerve-related (neurological) conditions that make them generally more likely to experience seizure symptoms. The disorder is diagnosed when a child has two or more seizures.
Source:
Children's Hospital Boston - Seizures and Epilepsy
The Nemours Foundation - KidsHealth: Seizures
Cincinnati Children's Hospital - Epilepsy and Seizures
More Information:
UpToDate For Patients - Patient Information: Seizures in Children
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