Benign Familial Neonatal Seizures

Posted By Andy on November 29, 1998 at 16:59:33:







My 9 day old son (Kenneth)was just diagnosed with Benign Familial Neonatal Seizures.  He is the fifth child on his mothers side that have had seizures during the first weeks of infancy, but is the first child to have the symptoms verified with an EEG.  I have a number of issues that I am searching for answers for, and having great difficulty.  I would appreciate information on any questions you can answer, and I would greatly appreciate you pointing me toward resources where I can find out more about this.  My questions follow
1) I understand there have been discoveries into the genetic links of BFNS, but what are they.
2) Is it possible that Kenneth will have epilepsy throughout his life?
3) What are the side effects of phenobarbital
I have a million more questions, but will leave it at that for now. IF anyone else reading this wants to start a support group please let me know.