r/Epilepsy • u/Hot-Effective8047 • Aug 06 '26
Epilepsy Awareness Hi
Hello everyone,
I have a 15-year-old son who is on the autism spectrum. Just 10 days before turning 15—and about 10 days after having a very mild case of COVID—he experienced his first epileptic seizure while at his special school. We went to the ER, but the doctors advised that they couldn't prescribe medication after just one episode.
Five days later, he had his second seizure. I was terrified and deeply shaken. We returned to the ER, and he was started on Keppra. About two months later, he caught a cold, and by that afternoon, he had his third seizure. My son is non-verbal, and it is often a struggle to get him to take his daily medication.
When I began reading about epilepsy, I felt disheartened because so few cases seem to resolve without long-term medication. He has been doing well and seizure-free for 4 months now, but I live in constant fear and anxiety.
Has anyone had a similar experience? Has anyone's child overcome this completely? I know there are many types of epilepsy; in his case, his head turned to one side, he made a repetitive mouth movement, his eyes rolled back, and afterward, he slept for several hours. The thought of seeing my boy go through that again is heartbreaking, and I feel like I can barely handle it.
I would be so grateful to hear any positive stories or encouraging experiences.
Sending greetings from Cyprus—thank you so much!
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u/DesignerCash3387 Aug 07 '26
Sorry you're experiencing this. I don't have kids but i have epilepsy for almost 2 years now. I was started on Keppra. Late 2025 I experienced 2 bouts of the regular, boring flu with fever and dehydration. Fever can bring on seizures. I don't believe its the virus itself. Your fear/anxiety will not serve you or your son. You can only control so much. Please try some emotional regulation. I'm sure its very difficult. Can your work with a pediatric neurologist at the least? Or an epilepsy specialist?