Epilepsy: recognition and management of seizures in children and young people

A seizure describes the signs and symptoms associated with a sudden surge in brain activity. It is a symptom of either acute brain disturbance, or may indicate a diagnosis of epilepsy, which describes an underlying tendency to have seizures. There are many different seizure types, which account for the wide variation in seizure symptoms. The principles of management remain constant for all seizure types: maintain child safety, ABC support, and arrange emergency assistance and hospital transfer for prolonged episodes. In addition to this, tonic-clonic seizures lasting for more than 5 minutes require treatment with benzodiazepines. Buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam are first-line options when intravenous or intraosseous access is not available. Children and young people with epilepsy should have individualised treatment plans which, if available, further simplify emergency treatment decisions.

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Childhood cancer in general practice: Is it really that rare?

InnovAiT Education and inspiration for general practice ◽

10.1177/1755738016689110 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 10 (4) ◽

pp. 209-217

Author(s):

Jennifer Kelly

Keyword(s):

General Practice ◽

Young People ◽

Early Diagnosis ◽

Childhood Cancer ◽

Signs And Symptoms ◽

Childhood Cancers ◽

Children And Young People ◽

Number Of Children ◽

The Uk

Childhood cancer is something most GPs think to be rare, yet it is the biggest medical cause of death in children aged between 1 and 14 years. Its incidence is increasing, with just under 4000 children and young people diagnosed with cancer every year in the UK (11 a day). It is important for GPs to know the signs and symptoms suggestive of childhood cancers, in order to help early diagnosis. This, in turn, can save lives and reduce disability in survivors. The number of children surviving cancer is increasing, with over 35 000 survivors now thought to be living in the UK and in need of particular expertise and care. This article aims to provide GPs with the tools and knowledge to diagnose childhood cancer, and a framework to support children with cancer and their families long-term in the community.

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Childhood constipation

InnovAiT Education and inspiration for general practice ◽

10.1177/1755738019867995 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 12 (11) ◽

pp. 626-634

Author(s):

Syukri Rahim

Keyword(s):

Young People ◽

Clinical Outcomes ◽

Healthcare Professionals ◽

Delayed Diagnosis ◽

Signs And Symptoms ◽

Children And Young People ◽

Medical Consultations ◽

Life Threatening ◽

Seeking Help ◽

The Impact

Constipation is a common problem in childhood. It is often under-reported and families may delay seeking help due to fear of embarrassment and a negative response from healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals may also underestimate the impact of constipation on the child and their family and this may subsequently contribute to poor clinical outcomes. Although it is rarely life-threatening, many children and young people experience psychological, social and educational consequences that require prolonged support. Signs and symptoms of childhood constipation are often poorly recognised. Delayed diagnosis, suboptimal therapy and lack of understanding of the condition often contribute to the ongoing symptoms and multiple medical consultations.

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