5-Year-Old Girl Experiences Nighttime Movements Diagnosed as Benign Epilepsy
In a recent clinic visit, a 5-year-old girl was diagnosed with benign epilepsy after displaying unusual movements during sleep. Her family reported that she had been experiencing episodes of thrashing and unusual throat noises while asleep since early childhood, with symptoms intensifying over time. After undergoing an EEG and brain MRI, doctors confirmed the diagnosis and initiated treatment with Levetiracetam. The frequency of seizures decreased significantly, and nighttime disturbances became rare.
Key Information
Patient: Female, 5 years oldCondition: Benign EpilepsyHospital: Shandong Third Provincial HospitalVisit Date: July 2019Treatment: Medication (Levetiracetam)Follow-up: Two weeks after starting treatmentOutcome: Significant reduction in seizure activity and nighttime movements
Initial Consultation
The patient was brought in by her family, who described how she had shown unusual movements during sleep since infancy. Initially, doctors suspected developmental delays and expected improvement with age. However, at age 5, the movements had increased in frequency and were now accompanied by strange throat sounds. Despite appearing healthy and active during the day, her EEG revealed sharp wave activity in the frontal regions, and MRI results were normal. Based on these findings, she was diagnosed with benign epilepsy.
Treatment Plan
Understanding Benign Epilepsy in Children
Benign epilepsy is a common condition among children and often resolves as the brain matures. Some children experience seizures primarily during sleep. While many cases improve naturally, this patient showed worsening symptoms by age 5. After expert evaluation, doctors decided to start medication to manage the seizures and prevent potential neurological complications. Levetiracetam was prescribed, and a follow-up visit was scheduled for two weeks later.
Progress and Results
After two weeks of consistent medication, the girl's family reported a noticeable decrease in nighttime disturbances. A follow-up EEG confirmed improvement, indicating that the treatment was effective. Doctors recommended continuing Levetiracetam for two to three years to ensure long-term seizure control and promote clinical recovery.
Recommendations for Caregivers
While the patient responded well to treatment, ongoing care is essential to prevent setbacks:
Monitor for recurring symptoms, as frequent seizures can impair cognitive functions such as memory and attention.
Follow the prescribed medication schedule and avoid abrupt discontinuation, which may trigger a relapse.
Maintain regular follow-up appointments to track progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
Encourage a healthy lifestyle including regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and consistent sleep patterns (8–10 hours per night).
Final Thoughts
Benign epilepsy can be easy to overlook, especially when symptoms appear mild or intermittent. In this case, the child's nighttime movements were mistaken for normal behavior. However, early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term cognitive effects. Parents should remain observant and seek medical evaluation if unusual sleep behaviors persist. Prompt intervention with appropriate medication can lead to positive outcomes and support healthy brain development.