This information is for people affected by or concerned about autism as a co-occurring condition with epilepsy, including parents and carers. On this page we talk about the characteristics of autism, seizures, signs to look out for, diagnosis, treatment and sleep problems.
Use this page as a general guide and speak to a health professional for more information and support.
Autism and epilepsy
Autistic children are more likely to have epilepsy than non-autistic children. Children with epilepsy are more likely to be autistic than children who do not have epilepsy.
Around one in five children with epilepsy are autistic.
One study has found that autistic males are more likely also to have epilepsy.
But other studies have found that being male or female plays no significant part in autistic people also having epilepsy.
What are the characteristics of autism?
Autism affects people in different ways. There are, however, traits that autistic people may share:
- Challenges with social communication and social interaction
- Repetitive and restrictive behaviour
- Being over- or under-sensitive to light, sound, taste or touch
- Having highly focused interests or hobbies
- Extreme anxiety
- Meltdowns and shutdowns
You can find out about all of the above in much more detail from the National Autistic Society.
Does epilepsy cause autism?
There is no evidence that epilepsy or epileptic seizures cause autism epilepsy and autism may share a biological cause, though more research is needed.
Seizures: signs to look out for
Not all autistic children will have seizures. This is because no one type of seizure is linked with autism.
But there are some characteristics linked with autism that can be confused with signs of seizures. These include:
- staring without responding – this could be a sign of absence or atypical absence seizures
- making unusual short, rhythmic movements, such as shaking or twitching – could be a sign of focal seizures
- stiffening of the body – this could be a sign of tonic seizures
- loss of attention – this could be a sign of focal seizures.
If you notice any of these signs in your child, you should speak to their GP to check whether they’re having seizures.
Find out more about seizures and seizure types.
Diagnosing epilepsy in autistic children
Diagnosing seizures or epilepsy is the same whether or not your child is autistic.
If you think your child is having seizures or may have epilepsy, speak to their GP. They may refer you to a specialist for tests. It’s important to get a diagnosis of epilepsy if you think your child may have it. Having a diagnosis will help the child’s doctor identify the cause of their epilepsy and decide the right treatment and support for your child. Epilepsy and seizures can usually be managed well.
Find out more about diagnosing epilepsy.
What to do if you think your child has autism
If you have a child with epilepsy and you think they may also have autism, talk to their GP. If your child is at school, talking to their teacher about your concerns might also be helpful.
They will be able to refer you to a specialist who will help work out if your child has autism. If they do, you should be offered support to help you manage your child’s autism alongside their epilepsy.
Treating epilepsy in autistic children
Epilepsy in autistic children is treated the same as in children with epilepsy who are not autistic.
Treatment will usually include anti-seizure medications. If those do not work, there are other treatments such as nerve or brain stimulation and special diets, like the ketogenic diet.
If your child is diagnosed with epilepsy, their doctor will talk to you about the treatment options and support available. If you’re not sure, or have any questions, ask a health professional to explain. They are there to help and support both you and your child.
Find out more about epilepsy treatments.
Sleep problems
Having both autism and epilepsy can affect sleep and cause sleep problems. Poor quality sleep can worsen a child’s behaviour or ability to learn and could trigger more seizures.
If your child is having problems sleeping, you should discuss it with their GP or healthcare team to see what support and help is available.
Find out more about monitoring seizures during sleep and choosing sleep monitors, other equipment, apps and subscriptions.
Find out more about treatment and support of co-occurring conditions with epilepsy.
Other useful organisations
National Autistic Society
An organisation that supports people with autism and their families.
