Medication
People with epilepsy may have language problems that arise from an underlying neurological problems, or seizures affecting language areas of the brain. Other cognitive problems can affect language abilities too. Rehabilitation strategies will depend upon the type and cause of the problems as well as the age of the patient.
Procedures
cushion their head if they're on the ground loosen any tight clothing around their neck, such as a collar or tie, to aid breathing turn them on to their side after their convulsions stop – read more about the recovery position stay with them and talk to them calmly until they recover note the time the seizure starts and finishes
Therapy
Oct 07, 2021 · Deep brain stimulation is often used for people whose seizures don't get better with medication. Responsive neurostimulation. These implantable, pacemaker-like devices can help significantly reduce how often seizures occur.
Self-care
Jan 23, 2019 · There are a few different theories on how medical marijuana helps patients with seizures: It is a neuro protectant, reducing oxidative stressors on the brain; It reduces neuronal excitability, which decreases the likelihood of seizures; Regardless of how it works, there is ample scientific evidence that medical marijuana can help some patients with seizures. CBD based …
Nutrition
Aug 22, 2020 · Absence seizures: More common in children than in adults, this seizure type is characterized by a brief alteration of consciousness without muscle movements or loss of muscle tone.A person may seem like they aren't paying attention or daydreaming during an absence seizure. Focal seizures: A common seizure type that may result from a brain injury (such as …
How to help someone during a seizure?
The first seizure not related to alcohol withdrawal should not result in permanent drug treatment in an alcohol-dependent patient, because of poor compliance and the high likelihood of remission. The treatment of alcohol dependence is more important and should be prioritised before the prevention of further seizures.
How can I get help for someone with epilepsy?
On June 25, 2018, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved EPIDIOLEX ® (cannabidiol, CBD) oral solution for the treatment of seizures associated with two epilepsy syndromes - Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome - in people two years of age or older. Epidiolex represents a new medication option for children with these types of epilepsy.
What is the goal of surgery for seizures?
Do I need to go to hospital for a seizure?
Does physical therapy help with seizures?
By working with a physical therapist, you can learn how to treat seizures naturally, address mobility issues, and stay active without putting your health at risk.
Do you need physical therapy after seizure?
Children and adults who have disorders or injuries that affect movement or coordination are often referred to physical therapists. While most people with epilepsy do not need physical therapy (PT), those persons who have limited mobility or are injured may be appropriate candidates for PT.Jun 27, 2008
What is epilepsy rehabilitation?
It is likely that epilepsy surgery or other treatments may require recovery and rehabilitation after the procedure. In addition to speech, physical or occupational therapy, neuropsychological rehabilitation may also be necessary.
What is the most effective treatment for seizure?
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) AEDs are the most commonly used treatment for epilepsy. They help control seizures in around 7 out of 10 of people. AEDs work by changing the levels of chemicals in your brain.
What foods should epileptics avoid?
If you have a sudden spike or crash in blood sugar, this could cause seizures. This is why it is generally best to avoid high sugar, processed foods such as cookies, cakes, candy and white bread. Ideally you should aim to follow a balanced diet which will release energy into your bloodstream at a slower, steadier rate.Feb 3, 2022
What activities should epileptics avoid?
People with uncontrolled seizures should avoid dangerous activities like scuba diving, rock climbing, skydiving, hang gliding, and mountain climbing. These sports require full concentration, and any episode of loss of consciousness may lead to injury and possible death.
How do you manage a patient with epilepsy?
Most people with epilepsy can become seizure-free by taking one anti-seizure medication, which is also called anti-epileptic medication. Others may be able to decrease the frequency and intensity of their seizures by taking a combination of medications.Oct 7, 2021
How can seizures be prevented?
10 tips to prevent seizuresTake your medication as prescribed. Anti-epileptic medications are designed to help prevent seizures. ... Don't consume alcohol. ... Avoid substance misuse. ... Practice stress management. ... Maintain a sleep schedule. ... Keep a consistent meal schedule. ... Avoid flashing lights. ... Protect yourself from head injuries.More items...•May 11, 2021
Can seizures be cured permanently?
There's currently no cure for epilepsy, but it can be managed with medications and other strategies.
How long can a seizure last before brain damage?
A seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes, or having more than 1 seizure within a 5 minutes period, without returning to a normal level of consciousness between episodes is called status epilepticus. This is a medical emergency that may lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Who treats patients with seizures?
If the doctor suspects seizures, the person probably will be referred to a neurologist, a doctor with special training in disorders of the brain, including epilepsy. Some neurologists have specific training in epilepsy and spend most of their time treating people with this disorder; they are called epileptologists.
What foods are good for seizures?
A low glycemic index diet focuses on foods with a low glycemic index, meaning they affect blood glucose levels slowly, if at all. Although it's not understood why, low blood glucose levels control seizures in some people. Foods on this diet include meat, cheese, and most high-fiber vegetables.
What can a physical therapist do for you?
Physical therapists can help people who have problems with moving and walking around. This may include helping people regain function or strength after a broken bone or a long period of not moving around. PTs can help people improve their balance, coordination and learn safer ways of walking.
What is an occupational therapist?
Occupational Therapists (OT) Occupational therapists commonly evaluate and treat people with epilepsy and other neurological problems. They can help find out why people have problems with tasks of daily living and teach them ways of adapting or compensating for the problems.
Can epilepsy cause language problems?
People with epilepsy may have language problems that arise from an underlying neurological problems, or seizures affecting language areas of the brain. Other cognitive problems can affect language abilities too. Rehabilitation strategies will depend upon the type and cause of the problems as well as the age of the patient.
What to do after a seizure?
After a seizure, your doctor will thoroughly review your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may order several tests to determine the cause of your seizure and evaluate how likely it is that you'll have another one. Tests may include: A neurological exam.
How to control seizures?
Dietary therapy. Following a diet that's high in fat and very low in carbohydrates, known as a ketogenic diet, can improve seizure control. The ketogenic diet is very strict and can be challenging to follow, as there is a limited range of foods allowed.
What is EEG brain activity?
EEG brain activity. An EEG records the electrical activity of your brain via electrodes affixed to your scalp. EEG results show changes in brain activity that may be useful in diagnosing brain conditions, especially epilepsy and other seizure disorders. High-density EEG. Open pop-up dialog box.
Can anti-seizure medication affect birth control?
Some anti-seizure medications can alter the effectiveness of birth control (oral contraceptive) medication. If contraception is a high priority, check with your doctor to evaluate whether your medication interacts with your oral contraceptive, and if other forms of contraception need to be considered.
What does EEG show?
The electrodes record the electrical activity of your brain, which shows up as wavy lines on an EEG recording. The EEG may reveal a pattern that tells doctors whether a seizure is likely to occur again. EEG testing may also help your doctor exclude other conditions that mimic epilepsy as a reason for your seizure.
Can a seizure cause anxiety?
If you're living with a seizure disorder, you may feel anxious or stressed about what your future holds. Stress can affect your mental health, so it's important to talk with your health care professional about your feelings and seek ways you can find help.
What is the purpose of a CT scan?
Computerized tomography (CT). A CT scan uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of your brain. CT scans can reveal abnormalities in your brain that might cause a seizure, such as tumors, bleeding and cysts. Positron emission tomography (PET).
How long does a seizure last?
Most seizures last between 30 seconds and two minutes and will not require any emergency medical attention. However, if someone is experiencing a seizure that lasts longer than two minutes, or they lose consciousness and it does not come back right after the seizure, you should call 911 right away.
What causes a seizure after a stroke?
Seizures can occur after a head injury, after a stroke, or as a result of certain infections and illnesses , such as meningitis. It’s important to recognize the signs of a seizure and understand what to do if you or someone around you is experiencing one.
What is a seizure in 2021?
Feb 11, 2021 3:30 PM. A seizure is a medical condition that causes abnormal activity and/or body movements after a sudden and uncontrolled disturbance in your brain. Most people associate seizures with a condition called epilepsy, but you can experience a seizure even without having this condition. Seizures can occur after a head injury, ...
How do you know if you have a seizure?
The most common symptoms prior to seizure include: A sound or tone that is the same each time. Changes in your hearing that might feel like you’re under water.
Do you need medical attention for a seizure?
Most of the time a seizure does not require urgent medical attention. The best thing you can do is make sure the person is safe and comfortable and will not get injured during the seizure by: Loosening any clothing that is tight around their neck or could restrict breathing (buttons, ties, etc.)
What is the opposite of déjà vu?
Jamais vu (the opposite of déjà vu), where things seem foreign or unfamiliar, even if you know you have been there before. Young children and babies can also experience seizures, but they may not be able to tell you what is going on. Common signs for children and babies include: Frequent or sudden stomach pain.
Does University of Utah have an epilepsy program?
University of Utah Health has a comprehensive Epilepsy Program to diagnose and treat patients who experience epilepsy. Learn more about the treatment options available and schedule an appointment with a neurologist today.
How to help someone with a seizure?
If you're with someone having a seizure: 1 only move them if they're in danger, such as near a busy road or hot cooker 2 cushion their head if they're on the ground 3 loosen any tight clothing around their neck, such as a collar or tie, to aid breathing 4 turn them on to their side after their convulsions stop – read more about the recovery position 5 stay with them and talk to them calmly until they recover 6 note the time the seizure starts and finishes
How to help a person in a wheelchair?
If the person is in a wheelchair, put the brakes on and leave any seatbelt or harness on. Support them gently and cushion their head , but do not try to move them. Do not put anything in their mouth, including your fingers. They should not have any food or drink until they have fully recovered.
Do you have to go to hospital for a seizure?
the person is seriously injured during the seizure. People with epilepsy do not always need to go to hospital every time they have a seizure. Some people with epilepsy wear a special bracelet or carry a card to let medical professionals and anyone witnessing a seizure know they have epilepsy.
How to get rid of seizures in epilepsy?
Medication. Most people with epilepsy can become seizure-free by taking one anti-seizure medication, which is also called anti-epileptic medication. Others may be able to decrease the frequency and intensity of their seizures by taking a combination of medications.
What is the procedure for seizures?
When medications fail to provide adequate control over seizures, surgery may be an option. With epilepsy surgery, a surgeon removes the area of your brain that's causing seizures. Doctors usually perform surgery when tests show that: Your seizures originate in a small, well-defined area of your brain.
What is EEG brain activity?
EEG brain activity. An EEG records the electrical activity of your brain via electrodes affixed to your scalp. EEG results show changes in brain activity that may be useful in diagnosing brain conditions, especially epilepsy and other seizure disorders. CT scanner.
How to diagnose epilepsy?
To diagnose your condition, your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may order several tests to diagnose epilepsy and determine the cause of seizures. Your evaluation may include: A neurological exam. Your doctor may test your behavior, motor abilities, mental function and other areas to diagnose your condition ...
Can epilepsy cause depression?
Uncontrolled seizures and their effects on your life may at times feel overwhelming or lead to depression. It's important not to let epilepsy hold you back. You can still live an active, full life. To help cope:
What test is used to diagnose epilepsy?
Your doctor may also suggest tests to detect brain abnormalities, such as: Electroencephalogram (EEG). This is the most common test used to diagnose epilepsy. In this test, electrodes are attached to your scalp with a paste-like substance or cap. The electrodes record the electrical activity of your brain.
What to do if you have a migraine?
Tell your doctor if you have migraines. Doctors may prescribe one of the anti-epileptic medications that can prevent your migraines and treat epilepsy.
What is the best medicine for seizures?
Two main areas of study have emerged in the treatment of seizures with medical marijuana, based on recent published research: 1 The role of micro-dosing and dose reduction in seizure treatment 2 THCA as a more effective anti-convulsant than CBD or THC
Is THCA better than CBD?
THCA as a more effective anti-convulsant than CBD or THC.
Does marijuana help with seizures?
It reduces neuronal excitability, which decreases the likelihood of seizures. Regardless of how it works, there is ample scientific evidence that medical marijuana can help some patients ...
What are the phases of seizure?
Seizure phases include the aural stage, the ictal stage, and the postictal stage. A seizure is a brief episode involving changes in consciousness and/or involuntary (not on purpose) shaking or jerking of the body. If you or your child has epilepsy, you may experience a seizure pattern that involves only the ictal phase or you may have ...
What is the most prominent and visibly apparent phase of a seizure?
The most prominent and visibly apparent phase of a seizure is described as the ictal phase. During this phase, you may experience alterations in consciousness, involuntary movements—or both. A seizure can be described as a convulsive seizure (with shaking or jerking movements) or a non-convulsive seizure (without any unusual physical movements).
How long does an aura last?
This stage occurs immediately before the ictal stage of a seizure and it can last from a few seconds to an hour in duration. Most people are aware of their own symptoms during a seizure aura. You may or may not have an aura prior to your seizures.
How long does the ictal phase last?
The ictal phase typically lasts between a few seconds to a few minutes. Usually, the ictal phase of a seizure resolves on its own. In rare instances, this phase may be prolonged and might not cease until you take rapid-acting anti-seizure medication—this type of continuous seizure is called status epilepticus .
Can you recognize a seizure pattern?
You should discuss all of your seizure symptoms with your doctor. Over time, you may begin to recognize your seizure pattern—including all of the stages.
What is the diagnosis of epilepsy?
If you have epilepsy, the diagnosis of your seizure type and your treatment strategy is typically based on the features of your ictal phase. Common seizure types include: Absence seizures: More common in children than in adults, this seizure type is characterized by a brief alteration of consciousness without muscle movements or loss of muscle tone.
What is the postictal stage?
The postictal stage occurs after the ictal phase of a seizure. You can have a variety of symptoms during the postictal stage of a seizure. You can be conscious or unconscious during this stage—and your level of consciousness during your postictal phase might or might not correlate to your level of consciousness during your ictal stage.
How long does it take for a seizure to occur after drinking?
The seizure threshold is raised by alcohol drinking and declines on cessation of drinking. As a result, during withdrawal from alcohol, usually 6-48 hours after the cessation of drinking, seizures may occur. Alcohol acts on the brain through several mechanisms that influence seizure threshold. These include effects on calcium ...
Can alcohol withdrawal cause seizures?
However, a genetic predisposition to alcohol withdrawal seizures is possible. Other seizures in alcohol-dependent individuals may be due to concurrent metabolic, toxic, infectious, traumatic, neoplastic and cerebrovascular diseases and are frequently partial-onset seizures.
Does alcohol affect the CNS?
During prolonged intoxication, the CNS adapts to the effects of alcohol, resulting in tolerance; however, these adaptive effects seem to be transient, disappearing after alcohol intake is stopped.
Does alcohol cause seizures?
The relationship between alcohol and seizures is complex and multifaceted. The prevalence of epilepsy in alcohol-dependent patients of western industrialised countries may be at least triple that in the general population, whereas the prevalence of alcoholism is only slightly higher in patients with epilepsy than in the general population. The seizure threshold is raised by alcohol drinking and declines on cessation of drinking. As a result, during withdrawal from alcohol, usually 6-48 hours after the cessation of drinking, seizures may occur. Alcohol acts on the brain through several mechanisms that influence seizure threshold. These include effects on calcium and chloride flux through the ion-gated glutamate NMDA and GABA receptors. During prolonged intoxication, the CNS adapts to the effects of alcohol, resulting in tolerance; however, these adaptive effects seem to be transient, disappearing after alcohol intake is stopped. Although the relationship of seizures to alcohol use is likely to be dose dependent and causal, the available clinical data do not suggest that alcohol use results in seizure genesis. However, a genetic predisposition to alcohol withdrawal seizures is possible. Other seizures in alcohol-dependent individuals may be due to concurrent metabolic, toxic, infectious, traumatic, neoplastic and cerebrovascular diseases and are frequently partial-onset seizures. Alcohol abuse is a major precipitant of status epilepticus (9-25% of cases), which may even be the first-ever seizure type. Prompt treatment of alcohol withdrawal seizures is recommended to prevent status epilepticus. During the detoxification process, primary and secondary preventative measures can be taken. A meta-analysis of controlled trials for the primary prevention of alcohol withdrawal seizures demonstrated a highly significant risk reduction for seizures with benzodiazepines and antiepileptic drugs and an increased risk with antipsychotics. A meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials for the secondary prevention of seizures after alcohol withdrawal showed lorazepam to be effective, whereas phenytoin was ineffective. Because withdrawal seizures do not recur if the patient remains abstinent, long-term administration of antiepileptic drugs is unnecessary in abstinent patients. The first seizure not related to alcohol withdrawal should not result in permanent drug treatment in an alcohol-dependent patient, because of poor compliance and the high likelihood of remission. The treatment of alcohol dependence is more important and should be prioritised before the prevention of further seizures.
When was CBD approved for seizures?
It has been hotly debated too. On June 25, 2018 , the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved EPIDIOLEX ® (cannabidiol, CBD) oral solution for the treatment of seizures associated with two epilepsy syndromes - Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome - in people two years of age or older.
What is epidiolex oil?
Epidiolex is a purified (> 98% oil-based) CBD extract from the cannabis plant. It is produced by Greenwich Biosciences (the U.S. based company of GW Pharmaceuticals) to give known and consistent amounts in each dose. Researchers studied this medicine in controlled clinical trials.
Does THC cause seizures?
This is the part that has been effective in reducing seizures in some people with epilepsy.
Does CBD help with seizures?
Early evidence from laboratory studies, anecdotal reports, and small clinical studies over a number of years suggest that cannabidiol (CBD) could potentially help control seizures. Research on CBD has been hard to do and taken time due to federal regulations and limited access to cannabidiol.
What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis is whole plant marijuana or chemicals in the plant used for medical purposes. Cannabinoids are substances in cannabis that act on cells in the body (called cannabinoid receptors) to cause some effect. Two major ingredients include. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which causes the psychoactive effects of "getting high".
Is hemp a Schedule I substance?
Cannabinoids extracted from hemp plants, including CBD, have until recently been classified as marijuana and considered Schedule I substances.
Is hemp derived CBD legal?
The potential for benefit as well as the interaction with other seizure medications and possible side effects require careful review with your doctor. * The Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (H.R. 2) legalizes hemp and hemp-derived CBD.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Clinical Trials
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Specialist to consult
Coping and Support
Preparing For Your Appointment
- Not everyone who has one seizure will have another one, and because a seizure can be an isolated incident, your doctor may not decide to start treatment until you've had more than one. The optimal goal in seizure treatment is to find the best possible therapy to stop seizures, with the fewest side effects.