Many of the risks associated with epilepsy in children are similar to those of adults. Some of these include:
- Illness/fever
Fever-induced seizures typically affect children between 3 months and 6 years. - Missed medication
If a child is prescribed anti-seizure medications to control their seizures, missing a dose (or taking doses at the wrong times) can lead to ‘breakthrough’ seizures. - Flashing/flickering lights
While this is a less common trigger than many people think, it still affects approximately 3% of people with epilepsy. It is more common in children and adolescents and can resolve later in life. - Lifestyle
Insufficient sleep can worsen seizures in some children. - Hormonal changes/puberty
Children with epilepsy may experience changes in their seizure activity as they go through adolescence.