Epilepsy is a condition where the brain has a tendency to produce seizures. It is one of the most common neurological conditions in UK children.
Key things to know
- Epilepsy is not one single condition — there are many seizure types and syndromes.
- Most children with epilepsy attend mainstream school with the right support.
- Seizures can look very different: staring, twitching, full convulsions, sudden falls, or moments of "absence".
- Around 1 in 200 children in the UK has epilepsy.
Diagnosis
A paediatric neurologist usually leads diagnosis. You may be referred for:
- EEG (brain wave recording)
- MRI scan
- Blood tests
- Detailed history of what you've seen
Film seizures on your phone if you safely can — neurologists say this is one of the most useful diagnostic tools.
What helps day-to-day
- A seizure diary (date, time, length, what happened before, recovery)
- An Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) at school
- Knowing your child's seizure triggers (tiredness, illness, missed meds, flashing lights for some)
- Telling close family, school staff and clubs what to do
When to call 999
- A seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
- One seizure follows another without recovery
- The child is injured, struggling to breathe, or it's their first ever seizure
Information only — always follow your neurology team's personal plan for your child.