Question
Will childhood epilepsy be inherited by the baby? My wife has epilepsy, and our son is three and a half years old, and he is developing normally. Will our child be genetically predisposed to epilepsy in the future, and what precautions should we take?
Answer
The genetic risk of pediatric epilepsy does exist, but not all cases are caused by genetic factors. Genetic epilepsy may be associated with chromosomal abnormalities, genetic metabolic disorders, or brain malformations. However, many cases of pediatric epilepsy are caused by acquired factors such as sleep deprivation, overexertion, and high fever. Parents should pay attention to their child’s lifestyle, avoid excessive stress, and control high fevers promptly to reduce the risk of seizures. Additionally, since the child’s nervous system is not fully developed, brain injuries may also trigger epilepsy. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and treating related diseases in a timely manner are crucial for preventing pediatric epilepsy.