Understanding Epilepsy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Hundreds of thousands of people in the UK suffer from epilepsy, a disorder of the central nervous system. Epilepsy epilepsy is marked by repeated seizures which can affect many areas of life, including work and educational opportunities, as well as relationships. Misinformation also surrounds the condition, despite its commonality, which is why increased awareness and early detection is of the utmost relevance.
Whether you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed or you’re already knowledgeable but would like to learn more, the following guide makes for an in-depth look at epilepsy: what it is, what causes it, the symptoms that indicate it, and what treatment options are available now.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a group of long-term as well as genetic neurological disorders characterised by the presence of epileptic seizures. The attacks can range in severity from momentary loss of consciousness to serious convulsions.
How Does Epilepsy Affect the Brain?
- During a seizure, an abrupt electrical disturbance in the brain interferes with normal communication between brain cells. This can lead to temporary changes in motion, behaviour, or senses.
Epilepsy Vs Occasional Seizures
- Not all seizures are epilepsy. Some causes of a seizure might be infection (such as meningitis or encephalitis), brain injury, or very low blood sugar. When a person experiences two or more unprovoked seizures separated by at least twenty-four hours, they are diagnosed with epilepsy.
Causes of Epilepsy
The exact aetiology of epilepsy is not always known, but several potential factors can play a role:
- Genetic Factors: Some types of epilepsy can be a part of the family due to inherited genetic mutations.
- Brain Injury or Trauma: A head injury from falls or accidents can cause epilepsy.
- Infections, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or cysticercosis, can cause seizures.
- Developmental Neurological Disorders: Autism and developmental delays can increase the likelihood of having epilepsy.
- Other medical conditions: Stroke, brain tumours, and Alzheimer’s disease may contribute to ED.
- Causes Unknown (Idiopathic Epilepsy): Half of all dogs with epilepsy fall into this category, and a cause cannot be determined.
Types of Seizures in Epilepsy
Seizures are divided into those that begin in one area (focal onset) and spread to involve both sides of the brain and are associated with loss of consciousness and convulsions, and those that don’t cause convulsions or loss of consciousness and start simultaneously on both sides of the brain.
1. Focal (Partial) Seizures
These start in one area of the brain and can be (but aren’t always) associated with a loss of consciousness.
- Simple Focal Seizures: The person is conscious but may have abnormal sensations (such as funny smells, déjà vu).
- Complex Focal Seizures: Awareness is affected, resulting in things like repetitive movements such as lip smacking or wandering.
2. Generalised Seizures
These usually cause unconsciousness and involve both sides of the brain.
- Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal): Most easily recognised: stiffening up (tonic phase) and then jerking (clonic phase).
- Petit Mal (Absence Seizures): Short periods of being unaware, sometimes misunderstood as day-dreaming (often occurs in children).
- Myoclonic & Atonic Seizures: Sudden jerks (myoclonic) or a loose muscle causing a fall (atonic).
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of seizure depend on the type but may include:
- Before Seizure (Aura): Unusual feelings (such as tingling, fear, odd smells).
- During a Seizure:
- Muscle spasms or jerking
- Staring blankly
- Loss of consciousness
- Uncontrollable movements
- Following a Seizure (Postictal Phase):
- Confusion or memory loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Emotional distress
Diagnosis of Epilepsy
If epilepsy is suspected, several tests will be done by a neurologist:
- Medical History & Physical Exam – Discussing seizures and general health.
- The electroencephalogram, or EEG, is a test used to identify illnesses by recording the electrical activity of the brain.
- MRI or CT Scans – Discover structural problems such as tumours or scarring.
- Blood Tests – Screen for infections, genetic defects, or metabolic disease.
Treatment Options
- Anti-Seizure Medications: Seventy percent of patients respond well to it, making it the most effective treatment. They can have side effects, such as dizziness, tiredness or mood changes.
- Surgery: With drug-resistant epilepsy, this can also involve the removal of the part of the brain affected.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): An implanted chest device that sends electrical impulses into the brain to decrease seizures.
- Ketogenic Diet: Particularly in children, a high-fat, low-carb diet can help manage seizures.
Living with Epilepsy
Managing epilepsy involves:
- Preventing triggers: Stress, not enough sleep, flashing lights, and alcohol.
- Safety Measures:
- To lower your chance of drowning, take a shower instead of a bath.
- If living alone, consider using seizure alarms.
- Mental Health Support: Anxiety and depression are now rife — therapy or groups can help.
Myths and Facts
❌ Myth: You should hold someone down during a seizure.
✅ Fact: Protect, pad the head, and roll to the side.
❌ Myth: You can catch epilepsy.
✅ Fact: It’s a neurological disorder, not contagious.
When to Seek Medical Help
Consult a doctor if:
- It’s a first-time seizure.
- The seizure continues for longer than 5 minutes.
- A second seizure follows the first.
- Early intervention is better.
Conclusion
Epilepsy can be well controlled with appropriate treatment and support. At Chase Lodge Hospital, our specialist neurology team offers a tailored treatment approach to support patients in leading a full life.
If you or someone you care for is suffering from seizures, get a professional diagnosis and a consultation to receive proper care.
Stay informed, stay safe, and take control of epilepsy today.
