Epilepsy and ADHD

The most common co-occurring disorder in children with epilepsy is ADHD.

Already the world of epilepsy is frightening, adding on a second diagnosis can make the whole situation even more daunting. Who would’ve thought that was even possible? But don’t panic. There’s lots of us, like me, who live freely whilst managing the day-today challenges of multiple diagnoses.

 

What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) affects people’s behaviour, and it can cause symptoms like difficulty concentrating or staying on task. Other tell-tale signs include impulsivity, excessively losing things and struggles in keeping relationships.

There are three types of ADHD:

  • Predominantly inattentive
  • Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
  • Combined

ADD (attention deficit disorder) is the term used for those who have more difficulty concentrating. And it isn’t essential to be hyperactive in order to receive an ADHD diagnosis.

 

What is epilepsy?

As you probably know. Epilepsy affects the brain and causes recurring seizures. A sudden electrical disturbance in the brain causes changes in sensation, behaviour or consciousness. And because the brain is responsible for so many functions, seizures vary depending on where in the brain this abnormal electrical activity is happening.

Seizures can last a few seconds to a few minutes. Lots of people deal mainly with the challenges of seizures, while others experience difficulty with learning, mood, and behaviour that impact quality of life.

 

Why do they co-exist? What’s the link?

ADHD symptoms tend to be present at the time of, or before, your first seizure. Symptoms can sometimes complicate the diagnosis of epilepsy as they can be mistaken for seizures. And what’s intriguing is that the link between both conditions is not fully understood.

Studies suggest that 30-40% of children with epilepsy also have ADHD, in comparison to 7-9% of children in the general population. It also affects twice as many boys than girls. Likewise, nearly 20% of adults with epilepsy also have ADHD, compared to 2.5-4% of adults in the general public.

 

What are the treatment options?

Treatments vary and are dependent of the individuals. They include:

  • Behavioural or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • Medication
  • Skills training
  • Coaching
  • School supports and accommodations

 

As someone with Epilepsy, talking therapies have worked wonders for me. Epilepsy can be lonely and seeing a specialist who’s heard it all before has helped me deal with my anxiety and reminds me that there’s others like me. Negative thoughts can quickly pile up and having the tools to manage them properly is life changing.
Kiva - Author

Other considerations

Finding the right treatment for both conditions can be challenging, but not impossible. There are concerns that stimulant meds, which are often used to treat ADHD, could possibly trigger seizures. Whilst some epilepsy meds can make ADHD symptoms worse. You should always be aware of the possible risks, but the probability of seizures increasing by taking ADHD meds is minimal so don’t be worried. 

Treating seizures first is a priority. If seizures can be controlled, some symptoms thought to be due to ADHD may improve. When symptoms of ADHD remain separate from seizures or if your epilepsy is controlled, the ADHD should then be treated. Reducing the symptoms of ADHD will minimise stress and enhance your ability to manage your meds and life challenges.

 

Living with Epilepsy and ADHD

It’s absolutely possible to live a fulfilled life with both epilepsy and ADHD. And It’s important to bear in mind that there’s so many effective treatments and specialist doctors available, and research pushes on every day. If possible, talk to family and friends and be open with them as you embark on your journey. It’ll improve their understanding and boost their confidence in how to help you manage both conditions.

Always remember, your epilepsy does not define you.

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