Seizures in Babies

A seizure is usually the result of disturbances in the electrical activity in the brain, that can manifest in several physical and behavioral changes till its lasts. Like adults, babies too can get seizures that can last for a few seconds to several minutes. Seizures are usually, a bit different from those that occur in children and adults. There are several types of seizures like, epilepsy, febrile, atonic and myoclonic seizures to name a few. Seizure and its different types are usually recognized with the help of electroencephalogram (EEG) and the degree of impairment of responsiveness in the affected individuals. But, interpreting the EEG patterns in newborns, as well as ascertaining the impairment of responsiveness in them is a bit difficult, due to which recognizing seizures or the different types of seizures in babies is a bit problematic.

What Causes Seizures in Children?
It can be caused by several factors, out of which high fever can be an important one. Seizures caused by high fever are termed as febrile seizures, which are more common in babies and newborns. Such seizures can last for a few seconds to several minutes. Another cause can be a birth defect, associated with nerve damage and irregularities in brain chemistry. Sometimes, nerve damage and brain chemistry irregularities can also be caused by physical injury or trauma to the head. Apart from these, genetic conditions like, tuberous sclerosis, characterized by growth of tumors in various parts of the body including, the brain can cause seizures. Some other important causes are, meningitis, encephalitis, abnormally low-level of blood sugar, bleeding into the brain tissues, electrolyte imbalance in the body, epilepsy, as well as abnormally low levels of calcium and magnesium in the body.

Symptoms of Seizures in Children
Seizures can be characterized by several symptoms, which can vary depending on the severity of the condition. The symptoms also depend on the underlying causes. As the central nervous system of the babies are not fully developed, it often becomes very hard to distinguish somesymptoms from the baby's normal behavior. As for example, jitters, or tremors is a normal behavior in babies, especially when they are awakened suddenly. But, it can be sometimes confused as a seizure symptom.

• Sudden jerky movements
• Twitching of certain parts of the body
• Fluttering eyelids
• A blank stare
• Lack of responsiveness to any stimuli
• Drooling
• Rolling the eyes back
• Teeth clenching
• Convulsions
• Incontinence
• Loss of balance
• Slow heart rate
• Loss of consciousness

Seizures Treatment for Children
The entire course of treatment for recurrent seizures depends on ascertaining the underlying causes. Physicians usually carry out an EEG, if they suspect seizures. Additional diagnostic tests can include, spinal tap, ultrasound of the head, CT scan and blood tests. Depending on the findings of such tests, physicians would prescribe medications, if necessary. Usually, treatment begins with the administration of a very low dose of medication in an attempt to avoid the possible side effects. Gradually, the dose is increased, if need arises. Medications are usually prescribed that last for more than 10 to 15 minutes.

During an episode of seizure, it is very important to ensure that the affected babies do not choke on their own saliva. Therefore, parents and care providers should wipe away saliva from the mouth, and roll the babies on their side. They should also try to keep the airways clear. If the seizures are recurrent in nature, then one can videotape the seizures. This can immensely help the physicians to properly diagnose the condition and to find out the appropriate treatment plan. At the same time, as high fever is the common cause, so parents should make sure that the body temperature of the baby does not exceed 102º F during an episode of fever.