Pediatric Epilepsy Care
Epilepsy in children can be frightening for families, but with the right specialists and a caring environment, it can be managed successfully. At Georgia Epilepsy & Neurology Institute, we focus on helping each child achieve their full potential through accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and family education. Our clinic is led by Dr. Ki Hyeong Lee, MD, Founder and Medical Director, and Dr. Joo Hee Seo, MD, who combine decades of neurological experience with a gentle, reassuring approach that puts children and parents at ease.
Understanding Pediatric Epilepsy
Pediatric epilepsy refers to recurring, unprovoked seizures that originate from abnormal brain activity. These episodes may look different from what parents expect — sometimes appearing as brief staring spells, muscle twitches, or sudden pauses in activity. Because children’s brains are still developing, their seizure patterns can change over time, making specialized evaluation essential.
Our goal is to determine the type of seizure and its underlying cause so we can select the most effective therapy while protecting normal growth and development.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition or family history
- Prenatal or birth-related injury
- Brain infections such as meningitis
- Head trauma or oxygen deprivation
- Metabolic or mitochondrial conditions
- Unknown ( idiopathic ) causes
Dr. Lee and Dr. Seo use comprehensive testing to pinpoint the cause and tailor treatment for each child.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis includes neurological exam, EEG testing, and MRI coordination to identify abnormal activity or structural changes. Our child-friendly setting helps reduce stress and makes testing easier for both patients and parents. Results are reviewed directly by our physicians, who explain findings in simple language and outline next steps.
Treatment and Family Support
Treatment may include anti-seizure medications, dietary therapy such as the ketogenic diet, or Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS) evaluation for drug-resistant cases. Equally important is education — parents learn how to track seizures, give medications safely, and create rescue plans for school or home. Our team partners with families long-term to adjust care as children grow.
FAQs About Pediatric Epilepsy
Q: Can children outgrow epilepsy?
A: Many do, especially if seizures begin in early childhood and respond well to medication.
Q: How do I know if my child’s staring spells are seizures?
A: If your child briefly stops activity and does not respond when called, schedule an EEG evaluation to confirm.
Q: Will my child need medication for life?
A: Not necessarily. Some children achieve remission and can taper off under medical supervision.
Q: Are there dietary options for seizure control?
A: Yes. The ketogenic diet can help in specific cases and is managed through our referral program.
Q: Can my child play sports?
A: Most children can participate safely with precautions and a clear safety plan from their neurologist.