A child's nervous system changes as the child grows, so the same sign can mean different things at different ages. The pages below explain, topic by topic, the signs, when to hurry, how the exam goes and how treatment is approached. At the end of each page you will find the scientific sources the information is based on.
Symptoms
Headache and migraine
More than half of children have a headache at some point; migraine affects 7–8 of every 100 children. Warning signs and treatment.
Seizures and epilepsy
First seizure, EEG, diagnosis and medication. Epilepsy is diagnosed in about 0.7% of children.
Febrile seizures
A seizure with fever between 6 months and 5 years of age. In simple febrile seizures an EEG and medication are usually not needed.
Stuttering
Early stuttering often resolves on its own, but when it lasts longer than 12 months, a speech therapy program is indicated.
Tics and non-epileptic events
Eye blinking, throat clearing, shuddering attacks, breath-holding. Most are benign; some need treatment.
Fatigue and weakness
Sleep, nutrition, anemia, mood and neurological causes. A step-by-step evaluation of a tired child.
Development and behavior
Developmental delay
Milestones in movement, speech and social development; screening at 9, 18 and 30 months; when an exam is needed.
Hyperactivity and attention deficit
ADHD occurs in about 5% of children worldwide. Diagnostic criteria, behavioral support and medication.
Autism spectrum
Screening at 18 and 24 months, early signs, the role of the neurological exam, and early intervention.
Cerebral palsy
About 2 of every 1,000 newborns. Early diagnostic tools and rehabilitation.
Babies
Newborn neurological exam
Muscle tone, reflexes, head circumference, fontanelle, spontaneous movements. What is checked in the first months.
Premature babies
Corrected age, risk factors, the follow-up schedule and early intervention.
Testing
EEG testing
When it is indicated, how it is done, how to prepare your child, and what the result means.
Frequently asked questions
Pediatrician, pediatric neurologist and child psychiatrist: who treats what?
A pediatrician monitors a child's overall health and notices the first signs. A pediatric neurologist treats diseases of the nervous system (seizures, headache, developmental delay, movement disorders). A child psychiatrist treats behavioral and emotional disorders. In conditions such as ADHD and autism, these specialists work together.
Should we get an EEG or MRI before the visit?
No. The neurologist decides which test is needed after the exam. An EEG done without an indication often shows “changes” that cause unnecessary worry and sometimes unnecessary treatment.
How long until the results are ready?
An EEG result is usually interpreted the same day or the next day. The turnaround for lab and imaging tests depends on the facility that performs them.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Aynura IbrahimovaLast updated:
The information on this page is for education only and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you are worried about your child, book an appointment. In an emergency, call 103.