Seizures/Epilepsy

Epilepsy

Understanding Seizures and Epilepsy

Seizures are sudden, abnormal electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, sensations, or consciousness. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affecting people of all ages, though it often begins in childhood or after age 60.

Types of Seizures:

  • Generalized Seizures: Involve both sides of the brain and can cause loss of consciousness (tonic-clonic seizures) or absence seizures (brief loss of awareness).
  • Focal (Partial) Seizures: Begin in one area of the brain and may cause localized symptoms like twitching or sensory changes, with or without altered consciousness.

Causes and Triggers:

  • Epilepsy: Often has no identifiable cause (idiopathic), but can result from brain injury, stroke, tumors, infections, or genetic factors.
  • Seizure Triggers: Include sleep deprivation, stress, flashing lights (photosensitivity), alcohol or drug withdrawal, and missed medication doses.

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

  • Medical History and Examination: Detailed history of seizures and neurological examination.
  • Diagnostic Tests: EEG (electroencephalogram) to measure brain electrical activity, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and blood tests to identify underlying causes.

Treatment Options:

  • Antiseizure Medications: Prescribed to prevent seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.
  • Lifestyle Management: Stress reduction, adequate sleep, regular medication adherence, and avoiding triggers.
  • Surgery: For cases where seizures originate from a specific brain area and are not controlled by medications.

Seizure and Epilepsy Care

At Jeev Multispeciality Hospital, we offer comprehensive care for patients with seizures and epilepsy:

Emergency Response:

  • Immediate Care: Ensuring safety during a seizure, monitoring vital signs, and managing acute symptoms.

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

  • Advanced Testing: EEG, MRI, and other specialized tests to accurately diagnose epilepsy type and identify potential causes.

Treatment Strategies:

  • Medication Management: Tailored antiseizure medications based on seizure type, frequency, and individual patient response.
  • Surgical Evaluation: Referral to neurosurgery for evaluation if medications are ineffective or if seizures originate from a surgically accessible area.

Multidisciplinary Approach:

  • Collaborative Care: Involving neurologists, epileptologists, neuropsychologists, and support staff to provide holistic care.
  • Patient Education: Empowering patients and caregivers with information on epilepsy management, lifestyle adjustments, and recognizing and responding to seizures.

Long-Term Management:

  • Follow-Up Care: Regular monitoring of medication effectiveness, side effects, and seizure frequency to optimize treatment.
  • Psychosocial Support: Counseling and support groups to address emotional and social challenges associated with epilepsy.