Physical effects of epilepsy
Some children with epilepsy experience no physical symptoms other than seizures. However, children whose seizures are not well controlled are more likely to experience fatigue and low energy. Other less common physical complaints include headache, stomach ache or nausea, weight gain or loss, and pain in various parts of the body. These symptoms may arise from the child’s underlying brain abnormality, seizures, medications or a combination of all three.
Physical effects of anti-seizure medications
An example of a drug side effect causing physical problems is the role valproic acid (Epival, Divalproex) plays in depletion of carnitine (an amino acid). This can produce fatigue, lack of energy and poor appetite. Checking the child’s carnitine level and giving a supplement if the carnitine is low can result in less fatigue, improved energy and an increase in appetite.
Managing fatigue
Children, including adolescents, who have increased fatigue often need up to 12 hours of sleep at night. Even with that amount of sleep, they may still require one or more naps during the day. In one study of children with difficult-to-control epilepsy, some of the children described how they were so tired during the school day that they were unable to pay attention or remember what they had just been taught. As a result, fatigue played a role in reducing academic participation and academic success.
If you are concerned about the physical effects of epilepsy or anti-seizure medications on your child, discuss it with the treatment team.
Managing other aspects of physical health
- Medication adherence: Make sure your child takes their anti-seizure medications as prescribed. This is essential for seizure control and minimizing the risk of injuries.
- Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep will also improve overall health and well-being.
- General safety measures: For tips for keeping your child safe at home and at school, see Epilepsy: How to keep your child safe inside and outside the home.
- Consult with your child’s medical team: Speak with your child’s neurologist about appropriate exercise options, safety precautions and any concerns about medication side effects or other physical health issues.
