What is Epilepsy ?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can result in changes in behavior, movements, or awareness, and is typically managed with medication or other treatments.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
- 1. Seizures: Uncontrollable movements or convulsions
- 2. Loss of consciousness/awareness: Temporary confusion or blank stare
- 3. Unusual sensations: Strange smells, tastes, or tingling
- 4. Involuntary jerking: Often in arms or legs
- 5. Staring spells: Brief lapses in awareness
- 6. Memory loss: Difficulty recalling events around a seizure
- 7. Aura: Warning sensations like dizziness or visual disturbances
Impact of Epilepsy and Risks of Untreated Seizures
Epilepsy primarily impacts physical health through recurrent seizures, which can cause injuries, disrupt daily activities, and affect social interactions. The hidden impact includes emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, and social stigma, leading to isolation and reduced self-esteem. If left untreated or treated early, complications such as increased seizure frequency, cognitive decline, and a higher risk of injury can arise, making comprehensive care essential.
Consult Our Neurologist
- Dr. David Okonkwo Md, MD : Specializes in neurology, focusing on diagnosing and managing neurological disorders, including epilepsy, through personalized treatment. Book Appointment
- Dr. Denis Harli Siregar, MBBS : Board-certified neurologist with expertise in diagnosing and managing epilepsy and other neurological conditions. Book Appointment
- Dr. Mohamed Tom, NEUROLOGIST : Experienced neurologist known for compassionate care in managing epilepsy and neurological conditions. Book Appointment
Importance and Benefits of Consulting a Neurologist Online
Epilepsy affects people worldwide, with higher prevalence in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, India, China, and Southeast Asia due to factors such as limited healthcare, infections, and lack of awareness. The burden is especially high in low- and middle-income countries, where barriers to diagnosis and treatment persist. Addressing these underlying causes is key to reducing epilepsy’s impact in these areas.
How Our Platform Connects You with Neurologists
Our platform links you with skilled Neurologists to address all your brain and nerve health concerns. Easily book appointments, access electronic prescriptions, and receive personalized, expert care. We are dedicated to ensuring a seamless and convenient healthcare experience for you.
100% Refund Policy
We value your satisfaction and confidence in our services. If, for any reason, your consultation does not occur, we offer a 100% refund policy to ensure your peace of mind.
FAQ
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to recurring seizures. The condition can arise from a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, head trauma, brain injuries, or developmental disorders. Neurological conditions such as stroke, tumors, or infections like meningitis and encephalitis can also contribute to its onset. Additionally, metabolic disorders, prenatal or perinatal brain damage, and prolonged oxygen deprivation may increase the risk. In some individuals, despite thorough testing, the cause remains unknown, emphasizing the complexity of the condition and the need for ongoing research.
Seizures are classified into focal and generalized types, each with different subtypes. Focal seizures begin in one area of the brain and can involve awareness or impair consciousness. In focal onset aware seizures, the person remains conscious but may experience unusual sensations or involuntary movements. Focal onset impaired awareness seizures cause confusion or repetitive movements. Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain and often lead to loss of awareness. These include tonic-clonic seizures (stiffening and jerking), absence seizures (staring), atonic seizures (muscle weakness and falls), myoclonic seizures (muscle jerks), tonic seizures (muscle stiffening), and clonic seizures (rhythmic jerking). Each type varies in severity and requires different treatments.
Epilepsy is mainly managed through a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and occasionally, surgical interventions, depending on the severity and frequency of seizures. The primary treatment for most individuals involves the use of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), which help control and reduce the frequency of seizures. When medication alone is not sufficient, other treatment options may include surgery to remove the brain area causing the seizures, or the use of devices like the vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) or responsive neurostimulation system (RNS) that help regulate brain activity. Dietary therapies, such as the ketogenic diet, are also recommended, particularly for children who do not respond well to medication. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as maintaining regular sleep patterns, managing stress, and avoiding seizure triggers, can further help in managing the condition.
Epilepsy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, neurological exams, and diagnostic tests. The process typically begins with a thorough review of the patient's symptoms, seizure history, and family history. Neurological exams help assess the patient's brain and nervous system function. The most common diagnostic test is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain and can detect abnormal brain wave patterns associated with epilepsy. Brain imaging, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or CT (Computed Tomography) scans, may be used to identify any underlying structural abnormalities, such as tumors, brain injuries, or areas of abnormal brain tissue that could contribute to seizures. In some cases, additional tests like blood tests or genetic testing may be performed to rule out other conditions or identify specific causes of epilepsy.