Expert Neurologists In Perumbakkam
Your Trusted Partner in Epilepsy Treatment
The journey of an epilepsy patient begins with an neurologist who determines the best treatment. When necessary, the neurologist may seek help and advice from other medical professionals and/or psychologists.
Understanding Epilepsy
Conditions for Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The conditions for epilepsy can vary depending on the individual, but some common factors and conditions associated with epilepsy include:
- Genetic Factors: There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in epilepsy. Individuals with a family history of epilepsy are at a higher risk.
- Brain Injury: Traumatic brain injury due to accidents, head trauma, or other causes can increase the likelihood of developing epilepsy.
- Brain Conditions: Certain brain conditions such as strokes, brain tumors, infections (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis), and developmental disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy) can lead to epilepsy.
- Developmental Disorders: Epilepsy is more common in individuals with developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or neurodevelopmental delay.
- Infections: Some infections, particularly those affecting the brain, can increase the risk of epilepsy. These include infections like meningitis or encephalitis.
- Prenatal Injury or Infection: Injuries or infections that occur during prenatal development can increase the risk of epilepsy.
- Vascular Diseases: Conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain, such as stroke or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), can lead to epilepsy.
- Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU), can increase the likelihood of epilepsy.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Some autoimmune disorders may affect the brain and increase the risk of epilepsy.
- Seizure Triggers: In some cases, certain factors can trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Common triggers include stress, lack of sleep, flashing lights (photosensitivity), certain medications, alcohol, and recreational drugs.
- Febrile Seizures: These are seizures that occur in children due to high fever, and having them may increase the risk of developing epilepsy later in life.
Symptoms
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness
- Pain
- Weakness or Fatigue
- Auras
- Loss of Awareness or Consciousness
- Unusual Sensations
- Automatisms
- Postictal State
Epilepsy in India
NewGen Hospital takes pride in offering a diverse array of treatment programs meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals facing cancer. Our dedicated team of professionals crafts personalized treatment plans that consider each patient’s specific circumstances.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The conditions for epilepsy can vary depending on the individual.
It’s important to note that not everyone with the above conditions will develop epilepsy, and not all cases of epilepsy can be attributed to a specific cause. Additionally, epilepsy can vary widely in its presentation and severity among individuals. If someone is experiencing seizures or suspects they may have epilepsy, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation and treatment from a healthcare professional experienced in neurological disorders.
We are here to provide you with top-notch care and guidance to tackle your problems.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing epilepsy. These risk factors can vary from person to person and may include:
- Family History: Having a family history of epilepsy or seizures can increase the risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors play a role in some cases of epilepsy.
- Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries resulting from accidents, falls, sports injuries, or other trauma can increase the risk of epilepsy. The risk is particularly high if the injury causes bleeding, bruising, or other damage to the brain.
- Stroke and Vascular Diseases: Conditions that affect blood flow to the brain, such as stroke, heart disease, and vascular malformations, can increase the risk of epilepsy.
- Brain Tumors and Other Structural Brain Abnormalities: Brain tumors, cysts, and other structural abnormalities in the brain can disrupt normal brain function and increase the risk of seizures and epilepsy.
- Infections of the Central Nervous System: Infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and brain abscesses can cause inflammation and damage to the brain, leading to an increased risk of epilepsy.
- Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and neurocysticercosis, are associated with an increased risk of epilepsy.
- Developmental Disorders: Some developmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and neurodevelopmental delays, are associated with an increased risk of epilepsy.
- Perinatal Injury: Injuries that occur during childbirth or the perinatal period (the weeks before and after birth) can increase the risk of epilepsy later in life.
- Febrile Seizures: Having seizures associated with a high fever during childhood, known as febrile seizures, can increase the risk of developing epilepsy later in life, particularly if the seizures are prolonged or recurrent.
- Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU), can increase the risk of epilepsy.
- Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Substance abuse, particularly alcohol and certain recreational drugs, can increase the risk of seizures and epilepsy.
- Age: Epilepsy can develop at any age, but the risk increases with age, particularly in older adults due to factors such as stroke, dementia, and other age-related conditions.
It’s important to note that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that someone will develop epilepsy. Additionally, epilepsy can occur in individuals without any known risk factors.
Prevention
To decrease the likelihood of getting an Epilepsy:
Avoid Head Injuries: Taking precautions to prevent head injuries can reduce the risk of epilepsy. This includes wearing helmets while cycling, participating in contact sports, and using seat belts in motor vehicles.
Manage Cardiovascular Health: Keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy through regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing high blood pressure, and controlling cholesterol levels can help prevent strokes and reduce the risk of epilepsy associated with vascular diseases.
Prevent Infections: Vaccinations can help prevent certain infections that can lead to encephalitis or meningitis, which are associated with an increased risk of epilepsy. Practicing good hygiene, especially during outbreaks of contagious diseases, can also reduce the risk of infections.
Prenatal Care: Seeking proper prenatal care and avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy can reduce the risk of brain injuries and developmental abnormalities in the fetus, which can contribute to epilepsy later in life.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Proper management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic disorders can help reduce the risk of epilepsy associated with these conditions.
Limit Alcohol and Drug Use: Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and illicit drug use can help reduce the risk of seizures and epilepsy associated with substance abuse.
Medication Adherence: For individuals diagnosed with epilepsy, adherence to prescribed antiepileptic medications is crucial for preventing seizures. Skipping doses or stopping medications abruptly can increase the risk of breakthrough seizures.
Manage Stress: While stress itself may not directly cause epilepsy, it can trigger seizures in some individuals with epilepsy. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and seeking support from friends and family can help reduce seizure frequency in some cases.
Monitor and Manage Seizure Triggers: Identifying and avoiding specific triggers that can precipitate seizures, such as lack of sleep, flashing lights, or certain medications, can help prevent seizures in individuals with epilepsy.
Genetic Counseling: For individuals with a family history of epilepsy or genetic syndromes associated with seizures, genetic counseling can provide information about the risk of epilepsy and guidance on preventive measures.
Aftercare Services
Aftercare is typically an extension of the main rehabilitation programs that’s aimed at supporting rehabilitation graduates to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some people find it challenging to maintain normal functions , which is why it’s important that you enrol in an aftercare program.
Recovery is a life-long journey, and aftercare/ alumni programs are there to help you avoid the risk of relapsing. Most aftercare programs are a combination of regular checkups and rehabilitation.
Treatments
Here are some common treatments for epilepsy:
Medications (Antiepileptic Drugs – AEDs): Most people with epilepsy are treated with antiepileptic medications. These medications work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and reducing the likelihood of seizures. There are many different AEDs available, and the choice of medication depends on factors such as the type of seizures and individual response. It’s essential to take medications as prescribed and to follow up regularly with a healthcare provider to monitor for side effects and adjust dosages as needed.
Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to be effective in reducing seizures, particularly in children with certain types of epilepsy that are difficult to control with medication. The diet can be challenging to follow and should be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider and a dietitian.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): VNS is a surgical procedure in which a device is implanted under the skin in the chest and connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. The device delivers regular electrical impulses to the brain to help reduce seizures. VNS may be an option for people who have not responded well to medication.
Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): RNS is another type of surgical treatment that involves implanting a device in the brain to detect and respond to abnormal electrical activity that can lead to seizures. The device delivers electrical stimulation to the brain to help prevent seizures before they occur.
Surgery: For some people with epilepsy, surgery may be an option to remove the area of the brain that is causing seizures (such as a tumor or scar tissue) or to disconnect the part of the brain where seizures originate from the rest of the brain. Surgery is typically considered for individuals who have not responded well to medication and who have seizures originating from a single, identifiable area of the brain.
Lifestyle Modifications: Certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, such as getting enough sleep, avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, managing stress, and avoiding seizure triggers.
Alternative Therapies: Some people with epilepsy may find relief from alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, biofeedback, or herbal supplements. It’s essential to discuss these options with a healthcare provider before trying them, as they may not be suitable for everyone and could interact with medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
Epilepsy can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, brain injuries, stroke, brain tumors, infections, and developmental disorders.
Seizures can be classified into two main categories: generalized seizures, which affect both sides of the brain, and focal (partial) seizures, which start in one area of the brain.
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, neurological examination, EEG (electroencephalogram) to measure brain activity, and sometimes imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans.
Treatments include medications (antiepileptic drugs), ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulation, responsive neurostimulation, surgery, and lifestyle modifications.
While epilepsy cannot always be cured, many people with epilepsy can effectively manage their condition with treatment, leading to a significant reduction in seizures and improved quality of life.
The department offers resources like support groups, educational materials, and referrals to other healthcare professionals to address comprehensive needs throughout the cancer journey.