Epilepsy

Kinds of Neurological Disorders

What is Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a fairly common neurological disorder. It occurs in about 1 in every 100-200 people. The word "epilepsy" comes from a Greek word meaning "to possess, seize or hold." Any disruption of the electrical processes in the brain may cause abnormal functioning. During epilepsy neurons in the cerebral hemispheres misfire and create abnormal electrical activity.

People with epilepsy experience seizures that are a bit like an electrical brainstorm. These seizure prevents the brain from:

• Interpreting and processing incoming sensory signals (like visual and auditory information).
• Controlling muscles. That is why people with epilepsy may fall down and twitch.

Causes

• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease
• Traumatic brain injury
• Infections, including brain abscess, meningitis, encephalitis, and AIDS
• Brain problems that are present at birth (congenital brain defect)
• Brain injury that occurs during or near birth
• Metabolism disorders present at birth
• Brain tumor
• Abnormal blood vessels in the brain
• Other illness that damage or destroy brain tissue
• Use of certain medications, including antidepressants, tramadol, cocaine, and amphetamines

Treatment

• Medication as prescribed by doctors
• Diet is very rich in lipids (fats) and oils, but low in proteins and carbohydrates.
• Surgery
• Exercises
• Relaxation Techniques
• Biofeedback
• Vitamin and mineral supplements

Coping up with the problem

• Taking prescribed medications as directed
• Healthy sleep habits
• Nutritional eating
• Setting goals
• Problem solving specific to epilepsy treatment regimen adherence
• Engaging in pleasurable activities
• Stress reduction/relaxation
• Changing one’s thinking patterns regarding the situation when the situation itself cannot be changed
• Restructuring perceptions of what it means to have epilepsy
• Looking for any benefits or positive impacts of epilepsy