Parental Perspectives of the Impact of Epilepsy and Seizures on Siblings of Children with Epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction: To assess parental perspectives of the impact of epilepsy and seizures on siblings of children in the Seizures and Outcomes Study.

Methods: Parents completed surveys about their child with epilepsy, their own health and well-being, and the impact of epilepsy on unaffected siblings.

Results: The most common parental responses about the sibling were witnessing a seizure, protectiveness of the child with epilepsy, worry about seizures, belief that seizures cause pain, and pride toward the child with epilepsy. Embarrassment and keeping epilepsy a secret were rare. Parent reports supported that siblings that worried were more likely to have witnessed a seizure, feel sad or angry, think seizures cause pain, and have a parent with anxiety disorder.

Discussion: Some siblings of children with epilepsy are at risk for psychosocial problems. Primary and specialty care providers are well positioned to identify and monitor these children through evaluations and referrals as necessary.

Keywords: Epilepsy; anxiety; seizure pain; siblings; worry.