This case is about Master Rahul. A 12-year-old boy in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, used to suddenly stop eating in the middle of a meal. There were times when he used to have small jerks and even become unresponsive. Initially, it was assumed to be tantrums for eating, but soon the parents realised it was something serious.                                                         

They finally sought help. They took him to CMC Vellore and Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, where neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar conducted tests. A regular EEG followed by a video-EEG during mealtime revealed an astonishing cause the young child was going through. He was diagnosed with eating epilepsy. It is a rare kind of reflex epilepsy where seizures are triggered by chewing and swallowing.

What Is Eating Epilepsy?

Eating epilepsy belongs to a small group of reflex epilepsies, where specific stimuli like food can trigger seizures. It is extremely rare. Studies mention it makes up less than 0.1% of epilepsy cases worldwide.

It often starts in male children or teens, with seizures located near the brain’s temporal or insular cortex. Clinically, seizures happen during or just after eating. In Rahul’s case, chewing or swallowing food clearly triggered episodes.

Once triggered, affected children might freeze, stare blankly, twitch, or lose awareness.

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How Was IT Diagnosed In Rahul’s Case

Initially, tantrums or pauses in eating were mistaken for behavioral issues. But symptoms gradually increased and surprisingly, it happened only around meals.

Tests highlighted abnormal brain activity when eating. MRI scans ruled out structural brain defects, confirming a pure reflex epilepsy condition.

Treatment For Such Cases

Reflex epilepsy cases like these often respond to medications. In some series, clobazam taken about 30 minutes before meals helped reduce seizures. Other medications like valproate are also used, after consulting the respective health worker.

After diagnosis, Rahul he began anti-seizure therapy and was able to eat normally again. His quality of life improved significantly.

Advice To Parents

Rare doesn’t mean impossible. This condition can affect even healthy kids. Any consistent behaviour change during meals needs medical attention.

If you notice any unusual activity, diagnosis should be the first step. Remember, reflex epilepsies are treatable.  

A routine EEG may not capture the issue; a video EEG during meals may be necessary.

Eating epilepsy is uncommon. But when it shows up at your table, don’t feel low. Relief and control are possible with medical guidance and dedicated care. And nothing is more powerful than a parent’s love; it can heal anything in this universe.