Epilepsy
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Epilepsy
If you think you or your child may have had a seizure, see your doctor. You may be asked about your history of seizures, how long they last, when they occur, and how you feel afterwards. Family history may be relevant.
The primary test for epilepsy is the electroencephalogram (EEG). Wires are taped to the head and electrical activity is measured. It's completely painless and can even be performed while the person is asleep.
Computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) create detailed images of the brain. These are essential to check for trauma, tumours, abscesses, and infections such as meningitis that can cause epilepsy. Your doctor may draw your blood for electrolyte levels or other tests.
Treating and Preventing Epilepsy
Anticonvulsant medications will eliminate or reduce seizures in most people. These medications will likely only be started after a second seizure occurs. There are several types, and not all of them work in every case. Examples of anticonvulsants include carbamazepine, lamotrigine, phenytoin, topiramate, and valproic acid. A doctor may need to try a few before finding the right one for a given person.
Unfortunately, many anticonvulsants can have side effects. Some can make a person mentally sluggish. Some can provoke facial hair growth and even blunt facial features. In children, they may cause learning or behaviour issues. They can also reduce the effectiveness of the oral contraceptive pill and cause birth defects.
If a person hasn't had a seizure while on medication for a long time (e.g. years), their doctor may discuss the possibility of slowly stopping the medication. Epilepsy is considered resolved if a person hasn't had a seizure in at least 10 years and has not used antiseizure medication for at least 5 of those years.
Epilepsy originating from a damaged part of the brain may require surgery when medications are not enough. This can sometimes cure the problem.
An implanted pacemaker-type device that stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck at regular intervals can sometimes improve seizures. A person wearing this device who feels a seizure coming can sometimes stop it by waving a small magnet over the implant to turn the stimulator on.
Anyone who is sexually active and could become pregnant, including those who have epilepsy, should talk to their doctor about folic acid supplements that reduce the risk of birth defects. There are also treatments for the various sexual problems that may accompany epilepsy.
Exercise is generally beneficial to those with epilepsy, and people rarely have seizures during exercise. People with epilepsy should take some common-sense precautions to avoid injury, such as avoiding swimming or bathing unsupervised, operating heavy machinery, or climbing ladders. Although some precautions are necessary, parents should try not to be overprotective. People with epilepsy can lead full, happy, and productive lives.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Epilepsy
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