Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures, caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can affect people of all age groups and has a profound impact on their daily lives.
In Pakistan, epilepsy has a noticeable prevalence, with approximately one out of every 100 individuals are diagnosed with this condition (Source: NIH). This highlights the significance of understanding and addressing epilepsy as a critical neurological concern.
Types of Epilepsy
Epilepsy includes various types of seizures and is classified into different categories based on the seizure's characteristics and the part of the brain involved. The two main categories are
- Generalized epilepsy: It involves seizures that affect both sides of the brain, including subtypes such as absence seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, myoclonic seizures, and atonic seizures.
- Focal (partial) epilepsy: Focal epilepsy involves seizures that originate in a specific part of the brain. This includes subtypes like simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures.
Understanding the types of epilepsy is important in diagnosing and determining appropriate treatment approaches for patients living with this condition. All types of epilepsy requires an experienced neurologist for its treatment and management.
Causes of Epilepsy
80% of Epilepsy (especially in children) cases are idiopathic that do not have any cause. Some common causes of symptomatic epileptic epilepsy are:
- Brain injuries or trauma
- Brain tumors or structural abnormalities
- Stroke or cerebrovascular disorders
- Infections like meningitis or encephalitis
- Developmental disorders
- Drug or alcohol
Apart from these causes, seizures can be triggered in epileptic patients due to lack of sleep, and skipping medication.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
Symptoms of epilepsy can vary depending on the type of seizure and the area of the brain affected. Common symptoms are:
- uncontrolled transient shaking
- Loss of consciousness
- Blank staring
- Dropping of head
- Sudden loss of muscle tone (stiffness or twitching)
- Transient altered sensations like smells, tastes, or visual disturbances.
Diagnosis of Epilepsy
The process of diagnosing epilepsy involves a comprehensive evaluation to gather necessary information and rule out other potential causes. Here is an overview of the diagnostic steps commonly involved:
- Medical History: A detailed medical history is taken to understand the type frequency, duration, and characteristics of the seizures, as well as any potential triggers or family history of epilepsy.
- Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to identify any physical signs or lateralizing neurological abnormalities that provide insights into the underlying cause of the seizures.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): An EEG is a key diagnostic test for epilepsy. It involves placing electrodes on the scalp to record the brain's electrical activity. The EEG helps identify abnormal patterns or spikes in brain waves that are characteristic of epilepsy.
- Imaging Tests: Imaging tests, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan, are performed to examine the structure of the brain. These tests can help identify any structural abnormalities, such as tumors, brain malformations, or scars that may be causing the seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
A seizure can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Most people with epilepsy live a full life. However, lifestyle changes and taking medication on time controls seizure recurrence and death.
Many people with epilepsy lead fulfilling lives with proper medical care. Epilepsy doesn't limit their potential for success and impact.
No, epilepsy is not contagious. It is a neurological disorder and cannot be transmitted from one person to another through contact.
Some common triggers for epilepsy are:
- Lack of Sleep
- Alcohol
- Missing of/Not taking medication
Epilepsy can occur at any age. Sometimes, it starts in young age due to family history, birth-related issues, or developmental problems. In the teenage years, changes in hormones and genes can make someone more likely to have seizures. Older adults can also develop epilepsy, often because of injuries, strokes, or age-related brain conditions.
Attendant care involves immediate response during seizures, medication assistance, observation, and emotional support to ensure the safety and well-being of people with epilepsy.
If you see someone having a seizure, it is important to stay calm. Make patient lie on the ground comfortably, clear the area of potential hazards, and turn them onto their side to ensure secretions from the mouth dribble out. Don't restrain their movements, and let the seizure run its course. Note the time, and if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or if another follows immediately, seek emergency medical help. After the seizure, stay with the person and let them rest.
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