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Epilepsy 101: What You Need to Know About This Brain Disorder
Published: Aug 17, 2024
Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by recurring seizures. Understanding this condition is crucial for patients and their loved ones.
What Exactly is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes unpredictable seizures. These seizures are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain that can affect a person's consciousness, movements, or actions. Epilepsy can develop at any age and affects people of all backgrounds. It's like an electrical storm in your brain that can strike without warning.
Types of Seizures
There are two main categories of seizures: focal and generalized. Focal seizures start in one area of the brain, like a small lightning strike, and can spread. They may or may not affect awareness. Generalized seizures involve both sides of the brain from the start, like a widespread thunderstorm. The type of seizure a person experiences depends on where in the brain the abnormal activity occurs.
Diagnosing Epilepsy
Diagnosing epilepsy involves a thorough medical history, neurological exam, and often brain scans like MRI or CT. An EEG, which records brain wave patterns, is a key tool in diagnosis. It's like detective work, piecing together clues from various tests and observations to determine if someone has epilepsy and what type it might be.
Treatment Options
The main treatment for epilepsy is medication called antiseizure drugs (ASMs). These work like a surge protector for your brain, helping to prevent the electrical storms that cause seizures. For some people, surgery, dietary changes, or devices that stimulate certain nerves may be options. Treatment is often a journey of finding the right combination that works best for each individual.
Frequently Asked Questions
While there's no cure, many people achieve seizure freedom with treatment.
In some cases, but often the cause is unknown.
Rarely, but there is a slightly increased risk of premature death.
It depends on seizure control and local laws.
No, seizures can manifest in many different ways.
Living with Epilepsy
With proper management, most people with epilepsy can lead full, active lives.
References
- Schachter SC. Advances in the assessment of refractory epilepsy. Epilepsia 1993; 34 Suppl 5:S24.
- Fisher RS, et al. ILAE official report: a practical clinical definition of epilepsy. Epilepsia 2014; 55:475-482.
- Kwan P, et al. Definition of drug resistant epilepsy: consensus proposal by the ad hoc Task Force of the ILAE Commission on Therapeutic Strategies. Epilepsia 2010; 51:1069-1077.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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