Epilepsy - Diagnosis

Complications

Injuries and Accidents

Injuries from Falls. Because many people with seizures fall, injuries are common. Although such injuries are usually minor, people with epilepsy have a higher incidence of fractures than those without the disorder. Patients who take the drug phenytoin have an even higher risk, since the drug can cause osteoporosis.

Household Accidents. Household environments, such as the kitchen and bathroom can be dangerous places for children with epilepsy. Parents should take precautions to prevent burning accidents from stoves and other heat sources. Children with epilepsy should never be left alone when bathing.

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Driving and the Risk for Accidents. People with epilepsy who have seizures that are not controlled by medication are legally restricted from driving. In general, laws stipulate that in order to drive a doctor must confirm that a patient has been seizure-free for 3 – 6 months. Needless to say, seizures can be very dangerous if they occur while a person is driving and result in injuries to the patient or others.

Accidents while Swimming. Swimming poses another danger for people with epilepsy, particularly those with tonic seizures, which can cause the diaphragm to suddenly expel air. People with epilepsy who swim should avoid deep and cloudy water (a clear swimming pool is best), and always swim with a knowledgeable, competent, and experienced companion or have a lifeguard on site.

Effects of Epilepsy in Children

Long-Term General Effects. In general, the long-term effects of seizures vary widely depending on the seizure's cause. The long-term outlook for children with idiopathic epilepsy (epilepsy of unknown causes) is very favorable.

Children whose epilepsy is a result of a specific condition (for example, a head injury or neurologic disorder) have higher mortality rates than the normal population, but their lower survival rates are most often due to the underlying condition, not the epilepsy itself.

Effect on Memory and Learning. The studies on the effects of seizures on memory and learning vary widely and depend on many factors. In general, the earlier a child has seizures and the more extensive the area of the brain affected, the poorer the outcome. Children with seizures that are not well-controlled are at higher risk for intellectual decline.