Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures due to sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. Normally, the brain sends messages through electrical and chemical signals. A seizure happens when there’s a surge of electrical signals, disrupting normal communication.
Symptoms of Epilepsy:
The signs of epilepsy depend on the part of the brain affected. Common symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Convulsions (shaking)
- Staring spells
- Uncontrollable movements
- Loss of consciousness
Types of Seizures:
- Partial (Focal) Seizures: These occur when abnormal electrical activity happens in just one part of the brain. People might experience an “aura,” which is a sudden feeling of joy or sadness before a seizure. They might also notice changes in their senses like sight, smell, sensation or hearing. In simple partial seizures, a person remains conscious but may have unusual movements. In complex partial seizures, consciousness is altered, and the person might scream, laugh, or cry.
- Generalized Seizures: These involve both sides of the brain and usually lead to loss of consciousness. An example is absence seizures, where a person briefly stares blankly and is unaware of their surroundings. This might include facial twitching and rapid blinking.
Effects of Epilepsy on the Body:
Epilepsy can impact various body systems:
- Muscular System: Seizures can cause muscles to jerk uncontrollably. If muscles around the vocal cords tighten, it might produce a sound like a scream.
- Digestive System: Seizures can lead to loss of control over bladder or bowel movements.
- Cognitive and Psychological Effects: Epilepsy can lead to problems with memory, attention, and thinking, potentially impacting daily functioning. It can contribute to anxiety and depression.
- Physical Effects: Seizures can cause falls, leading to fractures, bruises, or other injuries. Certain epilepsy medications can weaken bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Muscular, Skeletal, Reproductive and Digestive Systems: Epilepsy can indirectly affect these systems due to the impact of seizures and medications
First Aid During a Seizure:
- Keep bystanders away to give the person space.
- Avoid shaking or restraining the person unless they’re in danger.
- Move sharp objects away to prevent injury.
- Gently roll the person onto their side and place something soft under their head.
- Ensure their airway is clear.
- Don’t give them food, drink, or medicine during the seizure.
- Don’t give any metallic objects like keys or knife etc to the patient
- Don’t insert spoon or finger or sticks into the patients mouth to prevent tongue bite.
- Note the duration and symptoms of the seizure.
- Seek medical help if the person is pregnant, diabetic, the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, they don’t regain consciousness, or they have a high fever.
Epilepsy in Pregnancy: For pregnant women, seizures can become more frequent, increasing risks like high blood pressure or delivering an underweight baby. It’s crucial for pregnant women with epilepsy to have regular medical check-ups.
Epilepsy Treatment in Bangalore
For people looking neurologist for epilepsy treatment in Bangalore, Medineuro Speciality Clinic is a specialized neurology center offer advanced care. Treatments include medications, lifestyle changes and in some cases, surgery or neuromodulation for better seizure control.
Finding an Epilepsy Doctor in Bangalore
If you or a loved one is experiencing seizures, it’s important to consult an expert. Dr P R Krishnan is an experienced epilepsy doctor in Bangalore providing specialized care to help manage and treat the condition effectively. Regular check-ups and a proper treatment plan can significantly improve the quality of life for epilepsy patients.
References: https://www.newindianexpress.com/bengaluru/2017/Feb/22/unknown-eclipse-of-epilepsy-1573598.html
