What Causes Epilepsy And Can It Be Prevented?
Epilepsy is considered to be one of the most prevalent neurological disorders, impacting countless individuals across the globe. Still, it is typically misinterpreted, surrounded by stigma and misconceptions. Living with epilepsy can be overwhelming. However, with proper acknowledgement, treatment, and support, people with this medical medication can contribute to fulfilling lives.
In this blog, we will learn about what exactly epilepsy is, its associated symptoms, potential causes, and how it can be treated effectively. Let’s shed light on this frequently-neglected condition and encourage awareness, understanding and empathy.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a persistent condition of the nervous system defined by recurring, unexpected seizures resulting from irregular electrical impulses in the brain. These seizures can vary from brief moments of unconsciousness or staring spells to concerning convulsions that influence the entire body.
Epilepsy is not a singular condition, but a spectrum of disorders with diverse causes, symptoms, and treatment options. It can affect people of all ages, with onset often observed in childhood or later adulthood. While epilepsy is a lifelong condition for many, some individuals can achieve seizure control with the right treatment.
Understanding the Symptoms of Epilepsy
The hallmark of epilepsy is seizures, but the symptoms differ based on the type of seizure and the part of the brain affected. Some of the prevailing symptoms include:
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Seizures:
Seizures are characterised by unexpected shifts in behavior or lapses in consciousness. They can be classified into two different types:
- Focal (Partial) seizures: It impacts one part of the brain and leads to twitching, confusion, or unusual sensations such as tingling or smelling strange odors.
- Generalised seizures: These affect your entire brain and involve subtypes such as absence seizures (staring spells) and tonic-clonic seizures (convulsions with muscle stiffening and jerking).
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Aura:
Before seizure strikes, certain people may encounter warning signals such as visual disruptions, peculiar sensations, or fluctuations in their emotions.
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Lack of awareness:
Some seizures may lead to short-term memory loss or poor responsiveness, typically mistaken for daydreaming.
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Unsureness or fatigue:
After identifying a seizure, countless individuals may feel sensations of confusion, disorientation, or extreme tiredness, collectively identified as the postictal phase.
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Uncontrollable movements:
You may also experience strange movements in your body, for instance, repetitive blinking, jerking of limbs, or unknown behaviors such as lip-smacking.
It is crucial to understand that experiencing a single seizure does not confirm epilepsy. A proper diagnosis is only implemented when there are several unprovoked seizures present.
What causes epilepsy?
There are numerous potential triggers for epilepsy, and in certain situations, the precise reason may be elusive. Some of the most frequent causes are:
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Genetic aspects:
A family medical background associated with epilepsy or unique genetic mutations can incline susceptibility to the condition.
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Brain injuries:
Traumas from major accidents, strokes, or brain infections such as meningitis can impact regular brain activity and contribute to epilepsy.
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Developmental disorders:
Medical conditions such as autism or neurodevelopmental delays are sometimes connected with epilepsy.
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Brain tumors or Lesions:
Unusual growths in the brain can provoke seizures in specific individuals.
How is epilepsy detected and conquered?
Epilepsy is detected via accurate medical history, neurological exams, and diagnostic tests like EEG (electroencephalogram) and brain imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Therefore, treatments particularly include:
- Medications:
For those battling epilepsy, antiseptic drugs serve as a cornerstone, demonstrating the ability to effectively control seizures in about 70% of individuals affected by this condition.
- Lifestyle modifications:
Taking charge of a few practices, such as stress management, proper sleep, and steering clear of seizure triggers, is key to a healthier lifestyle.
- Surgical process:
In critical cases, surgery can be an effective option to extract or alter the part of the brain, leading to disruptive seizures.
Partnering with NeuroLife Brain & Spine Centre for professional care
Living with epilepsy necessitates extensive care, tailored treatment, and empathetic support. NeuroLife Brain & Spine Centre is dedicated to encouraging people dealing with epilepsy via the latest treatments, professional care, and a patient-centric strategy.
Our team of highly qualified neurologists and specialists ensure you receive appropriate diagnosis, altered treatment plans, and unwavering support to restore your quality of life. Whether it is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool, medication process, or lifestyle recommendation, NeuroLife Brain & Spine Centre offers a comprehensive approach to your brain and spine health, considering your wellness throughout the journey. Don’t wait–visit us today!
