Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting the central nervous system, causing abnormal activity that results in seizures or periods of unusual behavior. When it comes to epilepsy treatment, there are several paths that can be followed, ranging from clinical treatment to surgical options.
The root cause of epilepsy can’t always be identified, it’s estimated that this is only possible in about 50% of cases.
What Medications Are Used to Treat Epilepsy?Basic epilepsy treatment uses medications known as antiepileptics or anticonvulsants. These medications aim to eliminate or reduce the occurrence of epileptic seizures.
In some pediatric patients, after a period of being seizure-free, it may be possible to discontinue medication and go on to live a seizure-free life. In adults, medication may sometimes be discontinued after two years without any seizures.
There are currently more than 20 types of epilepsy medications, each with its own particular characteristics.
For this reason, and in order to determine the best treatment for each patient, the doctor needs to understand the type of seizure the person experiences, its duration and intensity, whether it’s focal or generalized, which part of the body it affects, whether or not there’s loss of consciousness, as well as general patient information such as age, when the seizures first began, and whether the person has any other underlying conditions.
Given all the factors and scenarios that must be considered for each case, the doctor may adjust the medication dosage. The type of medication may also be changed, and in some cases, two or three different medications may be used together in order to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.
Although these medications can cause side effects, these are generally mild and can include fatigue, dizziness, weight gain, rash, and in some cases, depression or organ inflammation, among others.
For this reason, it’s very important to follow the treating physician’s instructions regarding medication closely and to keep them fully informed of any side effects that occur.
If medications don’t achieve the dmedications andr if the patient is drug-resistant, the treating physician may explore the possibility of recommending surgery, with the goal of eliminating or reducing seizures, improving quality of life for patients and their families, reducing the number and dosage of medications, and helping the patient return to their daily activities.
How Can Epilepsy Be Prevented? Is It Even Possible?There’s no 100% guaranteed way to prevent epilepsy, since it can be caused by head injuries, genetic factors, brain abnormalities, infections, or developmental disorders, and in some cases, the cause simply can’t be identified.
For those wondering how to prevent epilepsy, there are several steps a person living with epilepsy can take to reduce the intensity or even the occurrence of seizures, including:
- Don’t stop taking medications at the prescribed doses and times.
- Avoid sleep deprivation.
- Avoid flashing lights.
- Excessive alcohol consumption can trigger seizures.
- Stress and depression can make seizures more likely, so if you’re dealing with these emotions, it’s recommended to work through them with a specialist.
At ABC Medical Center’s Epilepsy Clinic, we can provide you with specialized care, learn more about epilepsy treatment. Contact us!
