Nonepileptic seizures in the pediatric population: A qualitative study of patient and family experiences.

Objective: The objective of this study was to characterize the experience of nonepileptic seizures (NES) in young people (0-19years) and their families, referred to a UK specialist (tertiary) pediatric hospital. The topics investigated include: accessing healthcare, how the diagnosis was first explained, impact on home life and school, coping strategies, and ideas about naming and causes.

Methods: Ten young people with NES and 29 family members took part in focus groups and telephone interviews.