In most cases, epilepsy in children can be controlled with anti-seizure medicines. But in some children, seizures keep occurring despite taking medicines properly. This situation is called drug-resistant epilepsy. This can affect not only the physical health of the child, but also his studies, thinking ability and emotional health. According to the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), if seizures are not controlled even after using two appropriate anti-seizure medications, it is considered drug-resistant epilepsy. About one-third of patients suffering from epilepsy face this problem.
Instead of panicking in this condition, advice from a good doctor or expert should be taken. Let us tell you through experts why this happens and what should be done to avoid it?
What signs to pay attention to?
Dr. Sufi Rumi said that it is very important for parents to recognize the early signs. If the child is suffering from repeated seizures despite taking medicines on time, the seizures have become more frequent than before or their pattern has changed, then one should immediately consult a doctor. Staring repeatedly for a few seconds, falling suddenly, uncontrolled body movements, becoming unconscious for some time, slowing down of the child’s growth or not being able to become normal for a long time after a seizure are signs that should not be ignored. These symptoms do not mean that treatment is not possible, but timely and proper investigation is needed.
Why is proper testing important?
After this, the most important step is to get properly examined at a best epilepsy center. This includes long-term EEG monitoring, epilepsy protocol MRI, developmental tests of the child and, if necessary, genetic testing. These tests reveal whether the seizures are actually caused by epilepsy, what is their source, and what is the reason for the medicines not working. Correct diagnosis makes it easier to choose the right treatment.
There are treatments apart from medicines
If normal medicine is not providing any benefit, it does not mean that all avenues of treatment have been closed. Today, many modern options are available for the treatment of epilepsy in children. These include epilepsy surgery, neuro modulation technique and ketogenic diet given under the supervision of doctors. This is not a normal weight loss diet, but a medical diet, in which more fat and less carbohydrates are given. It should always be adopted under the supervision of experts.
Timely treatment is most important
The most important thing is that the child be taken to a specialist center in time. Changing medicines frequently without expert examination can lead to missed opportunities for better treatment. By getting the right treatment on time, the child’s education, mental development and quality of life can be improved.
However, never stop the medicine or change its dosage without consulting the doctor. By getting timely treatment, children suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy can also live a better and normal life.
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