Most seizures do not cause lasting internal injury, but a prolonged seizure can lead to brain damage and occasionally death. Then, of course, there's the persistent stigma. People shun those with epilepsy, assuming they're mentally ill or can't function at a normal level. As a result of such stigma, people with epilepsy often end up undereducated, underemployed and under-married, says Radtke. Early detection is key O'Hurley laments that parental denial is a huge hurdle when it comes to recognizing epilepsy in their children.
Parents often insist on saying, 'It's just a fainting spell.
The sad part is that with today's new medications, the very children they love can be spared needless suffering. Raman Sankar, associate professor of neurology and pediatrics at the UCLA School of Medicine, agrees. Cultural issues, including shame, often interfere with families seeking help. But diagnosing children early has a dramatic effect on their future. Children with seizures often suffer panic attacks and disorientation.