Epilepsy-A Complex and Debilitating Neurological Disorder

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that results from certain causes, leading to the sudden onset of seizures, usually along an unpredictable timeline. It can affect any age group, be it infants and children, adults, or even the elderly; roughly, 1 in every 100 people is diagnosed with epilepsy in the United Kingdom.

Causes of epilepsy are varied and complex generally falling into three categories:

genetic, acquired, and unknown. Genetic epilepsy is usually inherited but can be triggered off by mutations in genes involved in how electrical activity in the brain works. Acquired epilepsy is caused through external factors such as head trauma, stroke, or infections. A number of cases, after an extensive investigation, still remain unknown as to the cause of epilepsy.

The symptoms of epilepsy vary from subtle alterations in consciousness to dramatic seizures.

Seizures are manifestations of an electrical current problem in the brain and may include tonic-clonic convulsions, true absence seizures, partial seizures, and complex partial seizures. Seizures for some individuals may be triggered by or may be stimulated by something like flashing lights or loud noise.

Diagnosis of epilepsy typically involves medical history, physical examination, and neurological testing.

The diagnosis is usually confirmed by electroencephalogram tests, which measure the electrical activity of the brain. Other tests may include an MRI or CT scan to rule out other conditions that might also cause seizures.

Treatment for epilepsy generally is geared toward the control of seizure frequency and severity.

Most forms of treatment involve medication, but life changes may also be recommended. Anticonvulsant drugs work by normalizing brain wave activity. Lifestyle adjustments may be made to avoid known or suspected seizure triggers, such as strobe lights or loud music, in addition to regular sleep and exercise without excessive stress.

Apart from medication and change of lifestyle, there are a number of alternative therapies which may be useful in managing epilepsy. These include acupuncture, meditation, and yoga to reduce stress and anxiety. In some instances, surgery may be recommended to remove that small portion in the brain that is causing seizures.

Despite the great advances in treatment and management, epilepsy remains a highly burdensome and debilitating condition that significantly hampers the quality of life of any sufferer. The causality and treatment of epilepsy, therefore, remain active areas of investigation; continuous studies are performed with the aim of enhancing our knowledge on this disease process and the various treatment options.

Epilepsy can affect any age group and individuals from all walks of life. Although a very complex disorder that is sometimes quite challenging to manage, various available treatments may be applied in trying to control the seizures and improve the quality of life. With ongoing research and evolving treatments, it is hoped that the management of and treatment options for epilepsy will continue to improve.

References:

https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/what-is-epilepsy/

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/epilepsy

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/epilepsy-and-seizures

https://www.epilepsy.com/what-is-epilepsy

Websites:

Britmed Healthcare: https://britmedhealthcare.co.uk/

Nightingale Hospital: https://www.nightingalehospital.co.uk/

You can also book on Top Doctors UK Contact us on WhatsApp 08009708017

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