Not Every Seizure Is Epilepsy: What Parents Need To Know

Not every seizure-like episode in a child is caused by epilepsy.

Doctors say intense emotional stress can trigger psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), a condition that closely resembles epilepsy but does not result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Children with PNES may experience shaking, collapsing, staring blankly or becoming temporarily unresponsive. Because these episodes closely mimic epileptic seizures, they are often mistaken for epilepsy, making an accurate diagnosis essential.

Experts say emotional factors such as anxiety, trauma, bullying, family conflicts, academic pressure, or major life changes can trigger PNES.

Identifying the underlying cause early can help children receive appropriate treatment while avoiding unnecessary anti-epileptic medication.

Doctors diagnose the condition by reviewing the child’s medical history, symptoms and test results, including an electroencephalogram (EEG).

If an EEG remains normal during an episode, it may indicate that stress, rather than epilepsy, is causing the symptoms.

Treatment focuses on addressing emotional distress and helping children develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, family support and stress-management techniques are among the most common approaches recommended by healthcare professionals.

Doctors advise parents not to ignore repeated seizure-like episodes, even if they appear to occur during periods of stress.

Every child with such symptoms should undergo a thorough medical evaluation to rule out epilepsy and other neurological disorders before treatment begins.

Recognising the connection between emotional well-being and physical health can help parents seek timely care and provide the support children need to recover.

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