Why Genetic Testing for Seizures?

If your child has seizures, they can be difficult to deal with. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the world, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Genetics are one cause of seizures and epilepsy. Genetic testing can help identify specific genes causing seizures. Dr. John Millichap at Precision Epilepsy in Chicago, IL, provides a wide range of services, including genetic testing for seizures. He helps children dealing with seizures in multiple states nationwide via telemedicine.

What You Need To Know About Genetic Testing for Seizures

Seizures are caused by disturbances in the nerve cells in the brain. The seizures can be mild to severe and can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. Before and during a seizure, your child may:

● Exhibit confusion
● Develop blank staring
● Experience muscle rigidity
● Have uncontrolled jerking of arms and legs
● Experience loss of consciousness
● Have a sense of anxiety or fear

Genetic testing is a useful diagnostic tool to determine the genes involved with specific types of seizures and epilepsy syndromes. By determining the specific cause and nature of the seizures, your child’s treatment can be customized to treat the individual characteristics of your child’s condition. Genetic testing for seizures offers important benefits for your child, including:

● Enabling a customized medication regimen
● Identification of specific triggers for your child’s seizures
● Development of a personalized plan to help manage your child’s seizures and epilepsy

To view an informative and educational video about genetic testing for seizures and how it can benefit your child, please click here.

Dr. Millichap is an expert in pediatric epilepsy and volunteers with parent advocacy foundations. He is involved in academic clinical research and pharmaceutical clinical trials for epilepsy medications and treatment protocols.

Want To Know More?

To discover more about genetic testing and other solutions for seizures, call Dr. John Millichap at Precision Epilepsy. You can reach him via a telehealth appointment by calling (833) 530-3034, so call today. Visit our website to see which states are currently served.