Understanding Epilepsy: Causes, Risks, Symptoms & Treatment

Causes of Epilepsy

The major causes of epilepsy include:

• 1. Perinatal brain injury
• 2. Infections
• 3. Traumatic brain injury
• 4. Stroke

These conditions are often preventable. However, in about 30% of cases, epilepsy has no identifiable cause. Other possible causes include genetic influence, brain tumors, and developmental brain disorders.

Risk Factors for Epilepsy

Certain factors may increase the risk of epilepsy:

• 1. Age: Most common in early childhood and after 60, but can occur at any age.
• 2. Family History: A family history of epilepsy may increase the risk.
• 3. Head Injuries: Wearing seat belts and helmets can help prevent epilepsy caused by head injuries.
• 4. Stroke and Vascular Diseases: Healthy lifestyle choices like avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly can help reduce risk.
• 5. Seizures in Childhood: High fever-related seizures in children rarely lead to epilepsy, but the risk is higher with prolonged seizures or a family history.
• Epilepsy Triggers

Seizures can be triggered by:

• 1. Flickering lights
• 2. Lack of sleep or tiredness
• 3. Stress and excitement
• 4. Missed meals
• 5. High temperatures
• 6. Menstrual periods
• 7. Missed or late medication
• Symptoms of Epilepsy

Seizures may present as:

• 1. Temporary confusion
• 2. Staring spells
• 3. Uncontrollable jerking of arms and legs
• 4. Loss of consciousness or awareness
• 5. Psychic symptoms
• When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• 1. A seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
• 2. The person does not regain consciousness or breathing after the seizure.
• 3. A second seizure follows immediately.
• 4. The person has a high fever, is pregnant, or gets injured during the seizure.
• 5. A seizure occurs for the first time.
• Problems Associated with Epilepsy

Seizures can lead to dangerous situations such as:

• 1. Falling: Risk of head injuries or fractures.
• 2. Drowning: Higher risk while swimming or bathing.
• 3. Car Accidents: Dangerous if seizures cause loss of awareness or control.
• 4. Emotional Health Issues: Higher risk of depression, anxiety, and, in severe cases, suicidal tendencies.
• Diagnosing Epilepsy

Epilepsy is diagnosed through:

• 1. Description of the event
• 2. Home video recordings of seizures
• 3. Tests like EEG and MRI scans
• Epilepsy and Pregnancy

Seizures during pregnancy can be dangerous for both mother and baby. Some anti-seizure medications may increase the risk of birth defects. Women with epilepsy should plan pregnancy with their doctor’s guidance to ensure a safe pregnancy and childbirth.

Do’s and Don’ts During a Seizure

Do’s:

✔ Stay calm
✔ Move the person if they are in danger
✔ Protect their head
✔ Loosen tight clothing and remove glasses
✔ After the seizure, help with breathing by placing them in the recovery position
✔ Stay with the person until full recovery
✔ Reassure and re-orient them

Don’ts:

✖ Do not panic
✖ Do not insert objects (e.g., spoons) into the mouth
✖ Do not restrain convulsive movements (it may cause fractures)
✖ Do not give food or liquids until they regain full consciousness
✖ Do not crowd around the person
✖ Do not physically hold the person, as it may cause injury

Epilepsy Treatment Options

Most people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with anti-seizure medication. Others may need a combination of medications. Over time, more than half of those with controlled epilepsy may stop medications after being seizure-free for 2+ years.

To Ensure Best Seizure Control:

• 1. Take medications exactly as prescribed.
• 2. Do not stop medications without consulting a doctor.
• 3. Inform your doctor immediately about mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts.
• Surgical Treatment for Epilepsy

Surgery may help 30% of people whose seizures are not well-controlled with medication. Epilepsy surgery involves removing the abnormal part of the brain while preserving normal brain function.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS):

A newer treatment where a small generator is implanted under the skin below the left collarbone to help reduce seizure frequency and severity.