Epilepsy Treatment - Seizure Treatment in Children & Adult
What is Epilepsy?
Living with epilepsy can be tough. People often face sudden seizures that can happen anytime, making them feel anxious and less confident in their daily activities. Simple tasks like driving or even walking can become risky. Some folks also deal with feelings of confusion or being "out of it" after a seizure, which can be frustrating. The fear of having a seizure in public can lead to social anxiety and make people feel isolated. Managing epilepsy isn't just about physical health; it also affects emotional well-being.
We at Artemis Hospital understand these challenges and are here to support you. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of epilepsy. We offer a range of treatments and therapies designed to reduce the frequency and impact of seizures, helping you regain control over your life. We believe in a holistic approach, combining medical expertise with compassionate care to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Types of Epilepsy
Epilepsy can be classified into several types based on the origin and nature of the seizures. The two main categories are:
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures begin in one specific area of the brain and can either involve a loss of consciousness or not. They are further divided into:
Focal Seizures Without Loss of Consciousness: These seizures do not cause a loss of awareness. Symptoms may include altered emotions, changes in sensation, involuntary movements, or visual disturbances.
Focal Seizures With Impaired Awareness: These seizures involve a change or loss of consciousness. People may stare into space, perform repetitive movements, or exhibit unusual behaviors.
Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures involve all areas of the brain from the start and can manifest in various ways, including:
Absence Seizures: Characterized by staring spells, blinking, or lip smacking, these seizures are brief and usually occur in clusters.
Tonic Seizures: Cause stiffening of the muscles and can lead to falls.
Atonic Seizures: Result in a sudden loss of muscle control, often causing the person to drop to the ground.
Clonic Seizures: Involve rhythmic jerking movements, typically affecting the neck, face, and arms.
Myoclonic Seizures: Cause sudden, brief jerks or twitches, usually in the upper body, arms, and legs.
Tonic-Clonic Seizures: The most dramatic type, involving a combination of muscle stiffening and jerking movements, often accompanied by loss of consciousness.
Epilepsy Symptoms
Symptoms of epilepsy can vary greatly depending on the type of seizure. Common symptoms include:
Feeling disoriented or confused during or after a seizure.
Periods of unresponsiveness or staring into space.
Sudden, involuntary movements of the arms and legs.
Brief or prolonged periods of unconsciousness.
Experiencing fear, anxiety, or a sense of déjà vu.
Altered sensations of smell, taste, or vision.
Actions like hand rubbing, chewing, or swallowing.
Causes of Epilepsy
The exact cause of epilepsy is often unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development:
Some types of epilepsy run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Severe head injuries can lead to epilepsy.
Conditions like tumors or strokes can cause epilepsy.
Infections such as meningitis or encephalitis can lead to seizures.
Damage to the brain before birth can result in epilepsy.
Conditions like autism can be associated with epilepsy.
In about half of the cases, the cause remains unknown.
Risk Factors for Epilepsy
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing epilepsy:
Age: Epilepsy is more common in children and older adults.
Family History: A family history of epilepsy can increase the risk.
Head Injuries: Severe head injuries can lead to epilepsy.
Vascular Diseases: Conditions like stroke can increase the risk.
Dementia: Older adults with dementia are at higher risk.
Brain Infections: Infections like meningitis can lead to epilepsy.
Childhood Seizures: High fever-related seizures in childhood can increase the risk.
Complications of Epilepsy
Epilepsy can lead to several complications, including:
Falling or drowning during a seizure can cause serious injuries.
Seizures while driving can be dangerous.
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are more common in people with epilepsy.
Seizures during pregnancy can pose risks to both mother and baby.
Some types of epilepsy can affect memory.
Continuous seizure activity lasting more than five minutes can be life-threatening.
A rare but serious complication where a person with epilepsy dies suddenly without an apparent cause.
Diagnosis of Epilepsy
Diagnosing epilepsy involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. This may include:
Medical History Review: Discussing symptoms, family history, and any known triggers.
Physical Examination: Assessing overall health and neurological function.
Diagnostic Tests: These may include EEG, MRI, CT scan, and blood tests to rule out other conditions.
Treatment of Epilepsy
At Artemis Hospital, we offer a comprehensive approach to epilepsy treatment, tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options include:
Medications
Medications are the primary treatment for epilepsy. They can effectively control seizures in most people. Common medications include:
Anticonvulsants: These drugs help control seizure activity.
Anti-Epileptic Drugs: Various medications are available, and your healthcare provider will choose the best one for your condition.
Surgical Options
In some cases, surgery may be recommended if medications are not effective. Surgical options include:
Resective Surgery: Removing the part of the brain where seizures originate.
Lesionectomy: Removing a specific lesion causing seizures.
Hemispherectomy: Removing half of the brain in severe cases.
Other Treatments
Other treatment options may include:
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: A device is implanted to stimulate the vagus nerve, reducing seizure frequency.
Ketogenic Diet: A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that can help control seizures in some people.
Responsive Neurostimulation: A device that detects and responds to seizure activity.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help manage epilepsy and reduce the risk of seizures:
Regular Sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques and managing stress.
Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding known seizure triggers.
Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity.
Epilepsy Prevention
While epilepsy cannot always be prevented, certain steps can reduce the risk:
Wearing Protective Gear: Using helmets during sports or other activities that pose a risk of head injury.
Managing Underlying Conditions: Treating conditions like high blood pressure to reduce the risk of stroke.
Avoiding Alcohol and Drugs: Reducing the risk of seizures by avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs.
Prenatal Care: Ensuring proper prenatal care to reduce the risk of epilepsy in children.
When to Seek Medical Help
It's important to seek medical help if:
You Experience a Seizure for the First Time: Any unprovoked seizure warrants a visit to the doctor.
Seizures Are Not Controlled by Medication: If seizures continue despite treatment, further evaluation is needed.
You Have Frequent Seizures: Recurrent seizures can indicate a need for a different treatment approach.
You Experience Severe Symptoms: Severe symptoms like prolonged seizures or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Epilepsy Treatment?
Experienced Team & Advanced Technology: Our team of experienced neurologists uses the latest technology to accurately diagnose and effectively treat epilepsy, providing personalized care to meet your needs.
Comprehensive Care Approach: We offer a holistic approach to epilepsy treatment with a multidisciplinary team, including neurologists, epilepsy specialists, and support staff, ensuring the best care for each patient.
Affordable and High-Quality Care: We provide high-quality epilepsy treatment at affordable prices with transparent pricing and comprehensive insurance support to make treatment accessible to everyone.
Excellent after-treatment care: We offer continuous follow-ups and 24/7 access to our medical team to support your recovery and ensure the best possible outcomes.
Comprehensive Care
Our comprehensive care approach includes:
Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Including EEG, MRI, and CT scans.
Multidisciplinary Team: Collaboration among neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other specialists.
Support Services: Counseling and support groups to help you cope with the emotional aspects of epilepsy.
Epilepsy is a complex neurological condition that can significantly impact your life, but with the right treatment and support, it can be managed effectively. At Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon, we are committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care to help you or your loved ones lead a healthier, seizure-free life. If you have concerns about epilepsy or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your well-being is our priority.
Reviewed By Dr. Archana Sharma
Associate Consultant - Neurology
Artemis Hospitals
FAQs About Epilepsy
What is the main treatment for epilepsy?
The main treatment for epilepsy involves anti-seizure medications that help control electrical activity in the brain. Most people respond well to these drugs and can manage their condition effectively. In some cases, surgery or other therapies may be recommended. However, doctors may recommend different treatment options as the primary, depending on the severity and type of epilepsy.
What are the best treatments for epilepsy in children at Artemis Hospital?
Artemis Hospitals offers child-friendly epilepsy care, including accurate diagnosis, medication management, and dietary therapies like the ketogenic diet. Our paediatric neurologists also evaluate cases for advanced treatment options like surgery. Each plan is personalised to the child’s needs.
What are newer treatment options for epileptic seizures?
Newer treatments for epilepsy include responsive neurostimulation (RNS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and minimally invasive brain surgeries. These therapies are ideal for patients who do not respond to medication. Advances in genetics and imaging also help personalize care.
When to consult a doctor or neurologist for epilepsy treatment?
You should see a neurologist if you or your child experiences more than one unprovoked seizure or unusual episodes of confusion, jerking, or blackouts. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes. Artemis Hospitals offers expert evaluation.
How long does it take to see improvement after starting epilepsy treatment?
Improvement is often seen within a few weeks, but full seizure control may take several months. Adjusting the right dose and medication type is key to success. Regular follow-ups help track progress and minimize side effects.
Who is the best doctor for epilepsy treatment near me?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon has some of the best epilepsy specialists with extensive experience in treating all types of seizures. Our neurologists use advanced diagnostics and customize treatment plans for each patient. You can book a consultation with some of the leading medical experts for a comprehensive consultation.
Which is the best hospital for epilepsy treatment near me in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon is a top choice for epilepsy treatment due to its state-of-the-art neurology department and expert team. Artemis Hospitals offer advanced diagnostics, modern therapies, and comprehensive care for both adults and children. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures better outcomes.
Are there side effects of epilepsy medication?
Some medications can cause fatigue, dizziness, mood swings, or digestive issues. However, side effects vary from person to person and are often manageable. Doctors at Artemis Hospitals monitor for side effects and adjust medications accordingly. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications and discuss your medical history to avoid any side effects.
Can a person with epilepsy live a normal life?
Yes, with the right treatment and precautions, most people with epilepsy live full and active lives. Regular medication, routine check-ups, and avoiding triggers help maintain stability. Emotional support and lifestyle adjustments also improve quality of life.
What is the first aid for someone with epilepsy?
If someone is having a seizure, gently lay them on their side and protect their head from injury. Do not put anything in their mouth or try to hold them down. Seek medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if it's their first seizure.
Is there a 100% cure for epilepsy?
Currently, there is no guaranteed cure for epilepsy, but many patients become seizure-free with proper treatment. Some children may outgrow epilepsy entirely over time. Advanced therapies and surgery can also reduce or eliminate seizures in certain cases.
What are the different types of seizures in epilepsy?
Epilepsy includes several types of seizures, such as focal (partial), generalised, and unknown onset seizures. Generalised seizures affect both sides of the brain and may include convulsions or loss of awareness. Focal seizures originate in one area of the brain.
What causes epilepsy in adults and children?
Epilepsy may be caused by brain injury, infections, genetic factors, brain tumour, or developmental conditions. In adults, head trauma and strokes are common triggers, while in children, birth complications or genetic syndromes may be involved. Sometimes, the cause remains unknown.
Is epilepsy treatment covered by health insurance?
Most health insurance plans in India might cover epilepsy treatment costs, including neurologist consultations, diagnostic tests, and long-term medications if the treatment is deemed a medical necessity. However, the insurance coverage usually depends on the type of insurance and the terms and conditions set by the provider. Call us to know more about the insurance coverage for your epilepsy treatment.
How frequently should I consult a neurologist during treatment?
During the initial treatment phase, you may need to see a neurologist every 4–6 weeks. Once your condition stabilises, visits may be reduced to every 3–6 months. Regular follow-ups help monitor medication effectiveness and overall health.
