Seeing a family member suffer from epilepsy can be frightening, especially when it is a child. For International Epilepsy Day, paediatrician Dr. Opal Dunn-Reid helps us explore five facts to help parents understand epilepsy, challenge common myths and manage the condition in children.
1. Epilepsy is a condition of the brain
Epilepsy is when someone has repeated, unprovoked seizures — commonly referred to as ‘fits’. These seizures are caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain and can affect awareness, behaviour or movement. Children, more so than adults, tend to have seizures because their brains are still developing. While epilepsy itself is not a mental illness, it puts children at increased risk for developing one.
2. It’s more common than people realise
Around 4–10% of children will have at least one seizure during childhood, and about 1 in 200 children are diagnosed with epilepsy. The cause is often unknown, but it may be linked to genetics, brain development, injury, infection or immune conditions. A diagnosis is usually made based on the symptoms and findings of a physical examination. Further tests, if necessary, include blood testing, CT scans, brain MRIs and electroencephalograms (EEGs).
3. Seizures aren’t always dramatic
Not all seizures involve shaking or collapse. Some look like staring spells, lip-smacking, brief confusion, sudden weakness or muscle twitches. Others happen only during sleep. This is why seizures can be missed or misunderstood.
Dr. Dunn-Reid says parents shouldn’t panic if their child is having a seizure. “Do turn them on their side. Do not cover their face or put anything in their mouth or even try to hold their tongue, ” she says. “Move the child out of harm’s way and from any potential hazards.”
She suggests observing the seizure and immediately seeking medical advice if it’s the first occurrence, lasts longer than five minutes, happens again within a few minutes or if there is trouble breathing. She notes that it is also important for children’s schools to be aware of their condition and how to manage it.
4. Epilepsy can be treated and managed
Most children with epilepsy can be successfully treated with anti-seizure medications that are carefully selected based on their specific seizure type and individual needs. In some cases, specialised dietary therapies may also help reduce seizure activity, and for certain children, surgery can offer additional relief when seizures are difficult to control.
With the right combination of care, monitoring and support, many children achieve excellent seizure control, continue to thrive in school and everyday activities, and grow into adulthood with few or no further episodes.
5. Support makes a real difference
Managing epilepsy is an ongoing journey that requires consistent care, regular check-ups and close adherence to prescribed treatment plans. Support systems also make a meaningful difference. The National Health Fund (NHF) helps ease the financial burden by offering a double subsidy on medications, allowing families to better manage treatment costs. Keeping NHFCard information up to date ensures continued access to these valuable benefits.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to speak regularly with their doctor or pharmacist about seizure management and any concerns they may have. Joining the Jamaica Epilepsy Association can also provide comfort and guidance, connecting families with a community of parents, guardians, and caregivers who understand the experience and can offer support.
Families do not have to navigate this journey alone. With the right information, medical care and support, especially from the NHF, children with epilepsy can thrive.
