Direct answer
Amiet, C. et al. · Viscidi, E.W. et al. · Verified 2026-08-10
Quick summary
In brief
Key points
Prevalence, Timing, and Seizure Types
Risk factors for epilepsy in autism include co-occurring intellectual disability (odds ratio 3.7), female sex, and regression in early development. The risk persists across the lifespan, with seizure onset occurring at any age.
Common seizure types in autistic individuals include focal seizures (which may be subtle and mistaken for stimming or inattention), absence seizures (brief staring episodes), and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Subclinical epileptiform activity detected on EEG is also common in autistic individuals without clinical seizures, though the clinical significance of this finding remains debated.
Parents should watch for regression in skills, new onset of staring spells, unexplained falls, nighttime convulsive movements, or sudden behavioural deterioration — all potential indicators of seizure activity.
Treatment and Ontario Resources
Anti-seizure medication decisions should be made with the treating neurologist. Ask about seizure type, side effects, cognition, behaviour, and how the medication may affect school or therapy.
Ontario epilepsy resources include: the Epilepsy Program at SickKids (Toronto), the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at McMaster Children's Hospital (Hamilton), London Health Sciences Centre's Epilepsy Program, and CHEO's Neurology Division (Ottawa). Epilepsy Ontario provides education, support groups, and navigation assistance across the province.
When epilepsy co-occurs with autism, intervention planning should account for seizure medication effects on attention and behaviour, seizure safety during therapy sessions, and the potential impact of uncontrolled seizures on developmental progress. Communicate seizure action plans to all therapists and educators involved in the child's care.
Evidence and sources
Amiet, C. et al.
Epilepsy in Autism is Associated with Intellectual Disability and Gender: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis. Biological Psychiatry, 2008; 64(7):577-582
Viscidi, E.W. et al.
Clinical Characteristics of Children with ASD and Co-Occurring Epilepsy. PLoS ONE, 2013; 8(7):e67797
Frequently asked questions
- Should my autistic child have an EEG even without obvious seizures?
- Routine EEG is not recommended for all autistic children. However, an EEG should be considered if your child shows regression in skills, unexplained staring spells, unusual nocturnal movements, or sudden behavioural deterioration. Discuss with your child's pediatrician or neurologist if you observe any of these signs.
- Can anti-seizure medications affect my child's behaviour or learning?
- Yes. Some anti-seizure medications can affect attention, behaviour, and learning. Discuss each option with your neurologist and ask what to monitor at home and school.
- Does the OAP cover epilepsy-related services?
- The OAP covers clinical services for autism-related goals. If epilepsy is impacting your child's ability to participate in autism intervention, document this in the service plan. Medical management of epilepsy itself is covered through OHIP, including neurology consultations, EEGs, and hospitalizations.
Where the waitlist stands
Families navigating autism services in Ontario face a documented multi-year wait. Here is the Ontario data — and a two-minute way to push back, when you are ready.
About this page
Check the author’s context, review method, and how to report an error.