Does childhood epilepsy affect brain development?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I have noticed that my child has been drooling and experiencing eye twitching. I suspect it might be caused by pediatric epilepsy. Can pediatric epilepsy affect brain development?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Pediatric epilepsy can indeed have adverse effects on brain development. Repeated epileptic seizures may lead to abnormal neuronal discharges in the brain, thereby damaging brain tissue and affecting normal brain development. 1. Delayed intellectual development: Some children with epilepsy may experience intellectual disability and slow reactions due to damage to brain neurons. 2. Cognitive dysfunction: During epileptic seizures, brain function can be impaired, potentially leading to cognitive problems such as memory loss and decreased thinking ability. 3. Psychological developmental disorders: The abnormal manifestations during epileptic seizures, such as convulsions and foaming at the mouth, may cause psychological stress in affected children, leading to emotional issues such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal. For pediatric epilepsy, prompt medical attention and active treatment are essential to minimize adverse effects on brain development.