Understanding Epilepsy

These guides will help you understand different forms of epilepsy and how they are diagnosed.

Introduction to Epilepsy

This introduction aims to help answer some of the first questions that typically arise for families affected by epilepsy.

Seizure Types and Syndromes

Epileptic seizures may vary widely from one individual to another as well as from one seizure event to the next.

Causes of Epilepsy

Knowing about the causes of epilepsy can help guide treatment decisions.

Understanding the Brain

Learn about normal brain activity and what happens when seizures occur.

How Epilepsy is Diagnosed

Both sophisticated diagnostic technology and information from patients and their families help to identify epilepsy.

Family Stories

The eight family stories presented in these video profiles and essays provide a window into the lives of children with epilepsy and their families.

Glossary

A new diagnosis can come with a lot of unfamiliar medical terms. This glossary can help.

Treating and Managing Epilepsy

Find out how you, your family and your care team can treat and manage epilepsy.

Treatments

There are numerous ways to treat epilepsy and seizures, including diet, medication, and surgery.

Dietary Therapy

For patients whose seizures are not controlled by medication, dietary therapy can be an effective alternative.

Epilepsy Surgery

We provide surgical evaluation and treatment for pediatric patients whose epilepsy cannot be managed with medical therapy.

Talking About Epilepsy

Communicating effectively with your child and their teachers and caregivers helps manage the condition and fosters your child's emotional well-being.

Activities, Safety, and First Aid

How to safely manage sports, school, and other everyday activities after an epilepsy diagnosis.

Learning and Intellectual Development

Some forms of epilepsy can affect learning and intellectual development. Find out what that means for your child.

Mental Health & Behavior

Learn about addressing the mental health issues that can sometimes be caused by epilepsy.

Epilepsy and Your Family

A child's diagnosis of epilepsy can affect the entire family. These resources for parents and siblings can help.

THRIVE Wellness Program

THRIVE programs and activities are designed to enhance the learning, health and quality of life of children with epilepsy.

External Resources

CDC.gov Epilepsy Information:  Part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control provide information for patients and their families

Charlie Foundation: The Charlie Foundation was established to raise awareness about the ketogenic diet as a treatment for childhood epilepsy

Epilepsy Foundation: The Epilepsy Foundation provides education and advocacy for people affected by epilepsy

Exceptional Parent Magazine: A magazine for parents and families of children with disabilities

Sibling Support Project: A support and resource group for siblings of people with epilepsy and other conditions