A bsence epilepsy is considered to be generally benign, that is, it generally occurs in children with normal intelligence and is not associated with any progressive disease or brain deterioration. Genetic studies have suggested that it is an inherited tendency. At our center, we generally obtain an EEG, and if it is normal, we will try to wean children with absence epilepsy off of their medications before driving age. However, there is a risk of the return of seizures when medications are removed, and this cannot be determined before withdrawal. Thus, withdrawal of medications should only be done under the guidance of a physician who is knowledgeable in the area.
T here are many books on epilepsy that are directed towards patients and families.
I suggest you contact your local epilepsy association , or the Epilepsy Foundation of America for more literature and lists of books on a wide variety of topics.