Summary about Disease
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that causes changes in behavior, movement, feelings, or consciousness. It is not contagious. Epilepsy can affect people of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The severity and frequency of seizures vary greatly from person to person.
Symptoms
Seizures are the primary symptom of epilepsy. Seizure types and symptoms vary widely depending on which part of the brain is affected. Symptoms may include:
Temporary confusion
Staring spell
Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs (convulsions)
Loss of consciousness or awareness
Psychic symptoms such as fear, anxiety, or déjà vu
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Sudden falling
Causes
In many cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown (idiopathic). However, possible causes can include:
Genetic factors: Some types of epilepsy run in families.
Head trauma: Injury to the head can lead to epilepsy.
Brain conditions: Stroke, brain tumor, or brain infection.
Prenatal injury: Brain damage that occurs before birth.
Developmental disorders: Autism, Down syndrome.
Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis.
Medicine Used
Anti-seizure medications (also called anti-epileptic drugs or AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy. Common medications include:
Levetiracetam (Keppra)
Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
Valproic acid (Depakote)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Topiramate (Topamax)
Ethosuximide (Zarontin) - Primarily used for absence seizures. Other treatments include:
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Ketogenic Diet
Brain Surgery
Is Communicable
No, epilepsy is not contagious or communicable. You cannot "catch" epilepsy from someone who has it.
Precautions
Precautions for people with epilepsy focus on managing seizures and preventing injuries during seizures. These include:
Taking medication as prescribed.
Getting enough sleep.
Managing stress.
Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs.
Informing family, friends, and caregivers about epilepsy and what to do during a seizure.
Wearing medical identification (e.g., bracelet)
Considering safety measures for activities that could be dangerous during a seizure (e.g., swimming, driving).
Avoiding triggers if known.
How long does an outbreak last?
Epilepsy isn't an outbreak. It is a chronic condition with recurring seizures. The duration of a seizure typically lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes. Status epilepticus is a dangerous condition where a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or when seizures occur close together and a person doesn't recover between them.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of epilepsy typically involves:
Medical history: Review of symptoms, past illnesses, and family history.
Neurological examination: Assessment of motor skills, sensory function, mental status, and reflexes.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measures brain electrical activity.
Brain imaging: MRI or CT scan to identify any structural abnormalities in the brain.
Blood tests: To rule out other medical conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Epilepsy doesn't have a specific timeline of symptoms like an infection. It is characterized by recurring seizures. The onset of seizures can occur at any age. The pattern and frequency of seizures vary from person to person.
Some people might have infrequent seizures separated by months or years.
Others may have more frequent seizures, even multiple times a day.
Seizure types can also evolve over time.
Important Considerations
Driving: Driving laws for people with epilepsy vary by state/country. Often, a seizure-free period is required.
Pregnancy: Some anti-seizure medications can harm a developing fetus. Planning and consultation with a doctor are crucial.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP): Is a rare but serious risk. Adherence to medication and good seizure control can reduce this risk.
Mental Health: Depression and anxiety are common in people with epilepsy. Treatment is important.
Support: Support groups and epilepsy organizations provide valuable information and peer support.