5. Behavioral Changes: The Underlying Shifts in Personality
While seizures are the most overt manifestation of Doose epilepsy, the condition can also lead to nuanced behavioral changes. These aren’t mere mood swings or developmental phases but are intricately tied to the epilepsy itself.
Parents might notice their once amiable child displaying bouts of unexplained aggression, moodiness, or even hyperactivity. Such changes can be confounding, especially when they appear abruptly. The key lies in understanding that these shifts, whether they are irritability, social withdrawal, or even heightened fear responses, are manifestations of the underlying neurological condition.
Addressing these behavioral changes is as crucial as managing the seizures. Comprehensive care involves therapeutic interventions that cater not just to the physical but also the emotional and psychological aspects. Support groups, counseling, and a strong home support system can provide the much-needed anchor during these turbulent times. (5)
