Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease that manifests itself in the form of repeated seizures. Epilepsy can affect people of any age, gender or ethnicity. These seizures are the result of excessive electrical discharges in the brain and can manifest in various forms, from brief episodes of absence to intense convulsions. The causes of epilepsy are varied and can include genetics, head injuries, brain diseases, strokes, and brain infections. In some cases, despite in-depth research, the cause of epilepsy remains unknown.
The diagnosis of epilepsy is mainly based on the patient's medical history and tests such as electroencephalography (EEG), which records the electrical activity of the brain. Sometimes imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are also necessary to identify possible structural causes of the seizures. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to managing epilepsy, and can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by reducing the frequency and severity of seizures. Treatment is usually tailored individually to each patient, taking into account the type and cause of epilepsy, allowing effective control of the condition.
Treatment management
Managing the treatment of epilepsy plays a key role in improving the quality of life of people struggling with the condition. The available treatments range from anti-epileptic drugs to surgical therapies to modern techniques, such as neurostimulation, tailored to the individual patient's needs.
Antiepileptic drugs are the mainstay of epilepsy treatment and are effective in controlling seizures in most patients. Their selection is an individualised process and may take time to find the most effective combination with minimal side effects. The availability of different types of medication allows for a wide spectrum of therapeutic options, tailored to the specific type of seizure and the patient's overall health.
In cases where antiepileptic drugs are not effective in controlling seizures, surgical therapy may be considered. Brain surgery, such as epileptic focus resection, aims to remove the area of the brain that is the source of seizures. Although surgical therapy carries some risks, for many patients it represents an opportunity for significant improvement or even complete recovery from epilepsy.
Neurostimulation, including vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS), are newer treatments that may be considered for patients in whom other treatments have proved ineffective. These techniques involve using electrical impulses to modulate neuronal activity, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Regular consultations with a neurologist are essential in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment, adjusting medication doses and assessing possible side effects. Ongoing medical supervision also enables rapid response to any changes in the course of the disease and adaptation of the treatment plan to the patient's current needs. Effective treatment management requires the patient's active participation in the treatment process, including adherence to medical advice and reporting any observed changes.
The challenges of everyday life
People living with epilepsy often face challenges in their daily lives that can affect their safety and wellbeing. However, appropriate strategies and informed action can help to manage these challenges, improving quality of life and a sense of control over the condition.
Seizure risk management
- Home environment: Make sure your home is safe. Remove sharp corners from your environment, secure the corners of furniture and make sure your bathroom floor is non-slip. Consider installing soft carpets or mats that can soften a fall during an assault.
- Lifestyle: Leading a regular lifestyle, with adequate sleep, a healthy diet and avoiding seizure triggers such as intense strobe light or excessive stress can help reduce the risk of seizures.
- Coping with stress
- Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation or yoga can help manage stress, which is a known trigger for epileptic seizures. Finding an activity that helps you relax and unwind is key.
- Organising your day: Planning activities and managing time skilfully can help reduce stress levels. Setting realistic goals for each day and keeping time for rest can contribute to overall wellbeing.
- Safety in and out of the home
- Informing others: It is important that those around you know about your illness and know how to help you if you have a seizure. You can also carry an information card or medical bracelet with information about your epilepsy.
- Travelling: when planning your trip, make sure you have enough medication with you for the entire trip and copies of prescriptions. Inform those accompanying you how they can help you in the event of a seizure.
- Physical activity: Exercise is important to maintain good health, but some forms of activity may require special precautions. Choose safe forms of activity and, if possible, exercise in company.
Living with epilepsy presents a number of daily challenges for people affected by the condition, which can affect their wellbeing and safety. Despite these difficulties, with appropriate treatment management, an informed approach to lifestyle and the adoption of practical strategies to manage stress and potential risks, people living with epilepsy can lead full and fulfilling lives. The key is regular collaboration with the medical team, open communication with loved ones and active participation in the treatment and disease management process.
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