Managing Seizures and Epilepsy: Causes and Treatments

A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Commonly known as epileptic seizures or fits, these episodes result from excessive synchronized brain signals. Symptoms vary widely depending on which part of the brain is affected.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by experiencing multiple unprovoked seizures. Unprovoked indicates that triggers such as low blood sugar or infections aren’t involved. Proper diagnosis rules out other conditions like fainting or drug effects.

It is estimated that about 1% of the world's population has epilepsy, and 5-10% will have a seizure by age 80. Treatment is effective in approximately 70% of cases. For those resistant to medication, options include diet management, surgery, or neurostimulation. Regular therapy can reduce seizure frequency and intensity over time.

Seizure Types

Most seizures are convulsive, but non-convulsive ones are less common and often unnoticed due to their brief duration. The distinction lies in how much of the brain is impacted. If both hemispheres are involved, the seizure is generalized. If it starts in one region without involving the entire brain, it’s labeled partial.

Generalized Seizures

These include Tonic-Clonic, Absence, Myoclonic, Tonic, and Atonic seizures. Absence seizures, mainly in children, last 10-30 seconds, causing brief lapses in attention. Tonic-Clonic seizures involve body stiffening and rhythmic jerking, often followed by confusion or tiredness. Atonic seizures cause sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to falls. Myoclonic seizures feature quick muscle jerks.

Focal Seizures

Focal seizures, or partial seizures, are classified as simple or complex. They often start with an aura—a sensory or emotional warning. Simple partial seizures don’t affect consciousness, while complex ones do but not necessarily cause fainting. Symptoms depend on the affected brain area, and some partial seizures may evolve into generalized ones.

Beginning Treatment for Seizures and Epilepsy

Thankfully, with proper management, seizures can often be controlled or even eliminated. Diagnosis involves imaging tests like MRI and EEG to identify seizure type. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the primary treatment—they prevent seizures but don’t cure epilepsy. The choice of AED depends on individual factors and seizure type.

Common AEDs include Sodium Valproate, Carbamazepine, Levetiracetam, and Topiramate. When medication fails, surgery is considered, especially for focal, well-defined seizure sources. Patients must adhere strictly to medication schedules and make lifestyle adjustments—adequate sleep, regular meals, and physical activity—to reduce seizure risk. Advances in medicine have made living with epilepsy more manageable, allowing individuals to lead full, active lives.