What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures, which are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can affect how a person thinks, feels, and moves, and can vary widely in intensity and duration. Some people may have only a few seizures in their lifetime, while others might experience them more frequently. The exact cause of epilepsy can differ from person to person; it might be due to genetic factors, brain injury, or other underlying health issues. With proper treatment and management, many individuals with epilepsy can lead full and active lives.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
The symptoms of epilepsy can vary from person to person, but they mainly involve seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. During a seizure, a person might experience convulsions, where their body shakes uncontrollably, or they might seem to “zone out” and not respond to their surroundings for a short time. Some people also report unusual sensations, like sudden smells or tastes, or feeling confused and disoriented afterward. Other symptoms can include muscle stiffness, twitching, or temporary loss of awareness. It’s important to note that not everyone with epilepsy has the same type of seizure, and recognizing these symptoms can help in getting the right treatment.
Causes of Epilepsy
- Genetic Factors: Certain genes can increase the likelihood of developing epilepsy.
- Brain Injury: Trauma from accidents, falls, or surgeries can lead to seizures.
- Stroke: Reduced blood flow to the brain can result in seizures, particularly in older adults.
- Infections: Conditions like meningitis or encephalitis can cause inflammation and trigger epilepsy.
- Developmental disorders: Conditions such as focal cortical dysplasias and neurocutaneous disorders are associated with a higher risk of epilepsy.
- Brain tumours: Growths in the brain can disrupt normal electrical activity, leading to seizures.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug withdrawal can provoke seizures in some individuals.
- Metabolic imbalances: Issues like low blood sugar or electrolyte imbalances can trigger seizures.
How to diagnose Epilepsy?
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): This test measures the brain’s electrical activity and can identify abnormal patterns associated with epilepsy.
- Video EEG Monitoring: This combines EEG with video recording to capture brain activity and behavior during a seizure, helping to determine the type and cause.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI provides detailed images of the brain, helping to detect structural abnormalities, tumours, or lesions that may cause seizures.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan creates cross-sectional images of the brain to look for any injuries or abnormalities.
- Blood Tests: These can check for underlying medical conditions, infections, or metabolic issues that may be contributing to seizures.
- Neuropsychological Tests: These assess cognitive function and memory to understand how epilepsy affects mental abilities.
Treatments available for Epilepsy
- Medications (Antiepileptic Drugs): These are the most common treatment and help control seizures. Different types are available, and the choice depends on the type of epilepsy and individual response.
- Ketogenic Diet: This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet can be effective for some people, particularly children, who do not respond well to medications. It helps reduce seizures by altering the way the brain uses energy.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): This involves implanting a device that sends electrical signals to the brain through the vagus nerve. It can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
- Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): This device monitors brain activity and delivers electrical stimulation to prevent seizures before they occur.
- Surgery: For some individuals with focal epilepsy (where seizures originate in a specific part of the brain) and who do not respond to medication, surgery to remove the affected area may be considered.
- Lifestyle Changes: Managing triggers, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, reducing stress, and avoiding alcohol can help control seizures.
- Counselling and Support: Psychological support and counselling can be beneficial for individuals with epilepsy, helping them cope with the emotional and social aspects of the condition.
- Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, and it’s important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the best approach.
Why choose us?
At our center, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional care for epilepsy and related disorders. Led by Dr Akanksha Choudhary, a renowned epileptologist with extensive expertise in the field, we are committed to providing the highest quality of treatment. Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for diagnosing epilepsy, ensuring accurate assessments and tailored treatment plans for each patient. We are proud to be the first private center in Western Rajasthan to offer these advanced diagnostic tools, setting us apart in the region. With our dedicated team and cutting-edge resources, you can trust us to provide comprehensive care for your epilepsy needs.
Feedback
We are thrilled to share that we have received extremely positive reviews from our patients, reflecting their satisfaction with our services and care. Our commitment to excellence and patient well-being has resonated strongly within the community. You can read some of these heartfelt testimonials by following this link to the reviews. Your trust and feedback motivate us to continue delivering the best possible care for epilepsy disorders.