Just Diagnosed
Epilepsy affects 326,000 children in the U.S.
If your child was recently diagnosed with epilepsy, it’s likely your days have all of a sudden become filled with medical tests, doctor visits and, no doubt, worrying. The process can be confusing and overwhelming. You might feel depressed or even angry, and ask "why did this happen to us?" While those feelings are normal, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Epilepsy is much more common than people realize, affecting over 3 million Americans. This site can help you find support, address your fears and concerns, learn more about epilepsy and get started on helping your child live a full and active life.
Know the Facts
- Each year, 120,000 children, most under the age of 5, have a first convulsion.
- There is no apparent cause in 70 percent of new cases.
- Epilepsy is more prevalent (common) among racial minorities than among Caucasians.
- Males are slightly more likely to develop epilepsy.
- One percent of people develop epilepsy by 20 years of age.
- 70 percent of people with epilepsy are expected to enter remission (5+ years seizure free on medication); the majority can then be successfully withdrawn from (taken off) medication.
Beware of Myths
Myth: A child having a seizure can swallow his tongue.
Fact: No one can swallow their tongue. Any efforts to hold the tongue down or put something in the mouth can hurt the tooth or jaw.
Myth: People with epilepsy are possessed by the devil.
Fact: Epilepsy is a neurological (brain) disorder.
Myth: You should hold down a child who is having a seizure.
Fact: You should not hold down a child, just make sure the area near the child is safe, with nothing hard or sharp.
Myth: You should perform artificial respiration.
Fact: Artificial respiration is only needed if the person does not start breathing after the seizure has stopped.
