What is Epilepsy Disorder?
A comprehensive look at epilepsy, covering seizure types, symptoms, and treatment approaches
7/24/20242 min read
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting people of all ethnicities and genders. While epilepsy is a challenging disorder to live with, understanding the causes and treatments can help individuals better manage this condition.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that involves recurrent seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which produces a variety of symptoms.
Epilepsy is a spectrum disorder that encompasses a variety of seizures that vary from person to person.
Types of Seizures
Seizures fall into two categories:
Focal seizures are abnormal electrical activity that affects one hemisphere of the brain.
Generalized seizures are characterized by abnormal electrical activity that affects both hemispheres of the brain.
Causes
Epilepsy has no known cause, although an imbalance of neurotransmitters can trigger abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Experts believe that genetics paired with external factors could lead to epilepsy.
Head traumas can also damage brain tissue and cells, altering how electrical signals communicate in the brain.
Symptoms
Loss of consciousness
Collapsing
Stiffening of body
Non-responsiveness
Confusion
Eye blinking and staring
Random body movements
Jerking movements of arms and legs
Treatments
Anti-epileptic medications such as
Carbamazepine: Prevents the accumulation of electrical signals
Lamotrigine-Reduces electrical signals
Levetiracetam- Reduces electrical signals
Some people may be able to control their seizures effectively with surgery to remove a seizure-causing region of the brain.
Vagus nerve stimulation is a treatment that involves inserting a tiny device beneath the skin. It can help manage seizures by controlling the electrical signals in the brain.
Deep brain stimulation is an implanted device that controls the electrical currents to a specific area of the brain.
Takeaway
Epilepsy is a complex neurological disease that affects people of all ages. Understanding the various types of epilepsy, their causes, and treatment choices is crucial for effectively managing condition. Successful treatment for epilepsy allows individuals to live enjoyable lives.
