Dr. Reza Sharvin Bado, Chairman of the Board of the Iranian Pediatric Epilepsy Association and Board Member of the Iranian Pediatric Association, highlighted the considerable prevalence of epilepsy among children and warned that sleep disturbances, anxiety, and shortages of certain specialized medications may exacerbate seizures. He emphasized the importance of uninterrupted access to antiepileptic medications.
According to the Public Relations Office of the Iranian Pediatric Association, citing Hamshahri Online, Dr. Reza Sharvin Bado, a Board Member of the Iranian Pediatric Association, stated that epilepsy is one of the most important neurological disorders in children, affecting approximately 0.5% of children, with some reports estimating the prevalence to be as high as 1%.
He noted that, fortunately, the majority of pediatric epilepsy cases can be effectively controlled with antiepileptic medications. However, approximately one-third of patients have drug-resistant epilepsy and require more advanced interventions, including optimized pharmacotherapy, epilepsy surgery, ketogenic diet therapy, or neuromodulation using nerve stimulation devices.
Sleep Disturbances and Anxiety: Silent Triggers of Seizures
Referring to the impact of crisis situations on children with epilepsy, Dr. Bado stated that the most critical issue for these patients is continuous and uninterrupted access to their medications. Any interruption in treatment may compromise seizure control.
He further explained that anxiety and stress caused by unstable conditions, forced displacement, changes in sleeping environments, and increased environmental noise are among the factors that can trigger seizure exacerbation. Many epilepsy syndromes are closely associated with sleep, and sleep deprivation or sleep disturbances can increase seizure frequency.
Dr. Bado emphasized that even children whose epilepsy has previously been well controlled may develop drug-resistant epilepsy or require higher medication doses if exposed to these triggering factors.
Some Specialized Antiepileptic Medications Remain in Short Supply
Regarding the availability of medications, he stated that although many previous shortages have been resolved, certain specialized antiepileptic drugs that have no equivalent alternatives may still experience periodic supply limitations. He stressed that this issue requires ongoing attention and follow-up.
The Chairman of the Iranian Pediatric Epilepsy Association added that some children respond significantly better to specific antiepileptic medications, and substituting these drugs is not always feasible. Therefore, ensuring a stable supply of these medications is of particular importance.
Advice for Families: Never Interrupt Medication
Dr. Bado advised families to maintain regular communication with their treating physicians, including through telemedicine when necessary, and to ensure that no interruption occurs in their child’s medication regimen.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining the family’s mental well-being, reducing children’s anxiety, establishing regular sleep routines, and avoiding exposing children to stressful discussions or conflicts. According to him, a calm and supportive family environment is the most important protective factor for children living with epilepsy.
In conclusion, Dr. Sharvin Bado noted that families can benefit from the counseling services provided by the Iranian Epilepsy Association and specialized mental health centers to better manage anxiety and help prevent seizure exacerbation in children.
