Abnormal Brain Waves in Children: Treatment and Concerns

Q: Abnormal Brain Waves in Children: Treatment and Concerns

Hello Lin Junwei： The results of the electroencephalogram (EEG) should be interpreted by a pediatric neurologist at a medical center, who will provide recommendations based on the findings. <br>For emotional issues, you may ask the interpreting physician whether a referral to a p

Abnormal brain waves

The brain wave examination shows abnormalities in the frontal lobe.
Daily life is normal, and academic performance is above average in the fifth grade.
However, there are episodes of emotional instability occurring approximately once every 1-2 weeks, such as crying or throwing tantrums when faced with difficulties in completing assignments or feeling upset.
Should treatment be necessary? If medication is prescribed, will there be any side effects? Is there a possibility of a cure? If left unaddressed, will the condition worsen in the future?

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/12/11

Dr. Wang Jiayi reply Pediatrics

Hello Lin Junwei: The results of the electroencephalogram (EEG) should be interpreted by a pediatric neurologist at a medical center, who will provide recommendations based on the findings.
For emotional issues, you may ask the interpreting physician whether a referral to a psychiatrist for a psychological evaluation is necessary.
The Pediatrics Department of Hualien Hospital is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2006/12/11

More Info

Understanding abnormal brain waves in children can be a complex issue, especially when considering the implications for treatment and the potential for future complications. In the case presented, the child has been diagnosed with abnormal brain waves, specifically in the frontal lobe, yet is functioning normally in daily life and performing adequately in school. The emotional instability observed, occurring approximately once every one to two weeks, raises concerns but does not necessarily indicate a direct need for immediate intervention.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand that abnormal brain waves can be indicative of various underlying conditions, including epilepsy, sleep disorders, or other neurological issues. However, the fact that the child is functioning well in school and daily activities suggests that the abnormal brain waves may not be significantly impacting their overall cognitive or emotional health at this time. Emotional fluctuations, such as crying or frustration over schoolwork, can be common in children and may not be directly linked to the brain wave abnormalities.

In terms of treatment, the necessity largely depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause of the abnormal brain waves. If the child is experiencing significant emotional disturbances or if there are concerns about potential seizures or other neurological issues, a referral to a pediatric neurologist is advisable. This specialist can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and determine whether further diagnostic testing or treatment is warranted.

Regarding medication, it is important to consider the potential side effects. Many medications used to treat neurological conditions can have side effects, which may include drowsiness, mood changes, or cognitive effects. The decision to initiate medication should be made carefully, weighing the benefits against the potential risks. If medication is deemed necessary, close monitoring by a healthcare provider will be essential to manage any side effects and adjust treatment as needed.

As for the concern about whether ignoring the situation could lead to worsening symptoms, it is crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare providers. While some children may outgrow certain issues, others may require intervention to prevent further complications. Regular follow-ups with a pediatric neurologist can help track the child's progress and determine if any changes in treatment are necessary.

In summary, while the child exhibits some emotional instability, their overall functioning appears to be normal. It is advisable to consult with a pediatric neurologist to assess the significance of the abnormal brain waves and determine the best course of action. Monitoring the child's emotional health and academic performance is essential, and any concerning changes should prompt further evaluation. Early intervention can be beneficial, but the approach should be tailored to the individual child's needs, considering both the potential benefits and risks of treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abnormal Brain Waves in Children: Is It Epilepsy?

Hello Doctor: My child is currently 1 year and 6 months old. At around 1 year and 3 to 4 months, I noticed that my child had episodes of trembling upon waking up. We took him to the National Taiwan University Hospital in Yunlin for an EEG, which revealed abnormal electrical disch...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
If you have not taken medication and do not have any clinical symptoms, you can return to the clinic and inform your physician. They will likely perform another EEG to assess the brain's electrical activity to confirm the diagnosis. If epilepsy is indeed present and not cont...

Managing Uncontrollable Body Tremors in Children with Anxiety Disorders

My daughter, who is in the ninth grade, has been diagnosed by a psychologist with Asperger's syndrome combined with anxiety, irritability, and emotional instability. She has been taking Buspirone for nearly a year. Three weeks ago, one night, she experienced involuntary shak...

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry
Hello, Afun's mom: I understand that your child's condition must be very concerning for you, and I appreciate your efforts. Regarding the issue of tics, the pediatric neurologist should have initially ruled out neurological disorders after examination; tics may be a phy...

Understanding Abnormal EEG Results: Causes and Concerns Explained

I have abnormal brain wave results (cortical dysfunction in the left hemisphere), but I have no other physical discomfort. What could be the possible causes? I'm really worried, thank you.

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Electroencephalography (EEG) primarily assesses the electrical activity of the cerebral cortex and its responsiveness to various stimuli to infer cortical function. Asymmetry in brain wave patterns may represent normal variations in healthy individuals, or it could be influenced ...

Understanding Infantile Spasms: Treatment Options and Success Stories

Hello Doctor: The child experienced infantile spasms at 3 months old. An MRI showed no abnormalities, ruling out tuberous sclerosis. Blood and urine tests were normal. The child is currently receiving vitamin B supplementation, oral vigabatrin, steroid injections (ATCH), and oral...

Dr. Chen Shunsheng reply Rare Disease
Infantile spasms can be diagnosed and treated by pediatric neurologists. Other issues require a personal examination before providing answers, so it is recommended to consult the child's pediatric neurologist directly.