Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes abnormal brain signals, leading to seizures. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, and is not caused by mental illness. Learn the different types of seizures, how its diagnosed, and treatment options to help manage it.
1 of 8
Download to read offline
More Related Content
Understanding Epilepsy: Key Facts You Should Know
1. Understanding
Epilepsy: What Is
It?
EPILEPSY IS A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER THAT CAUSES THE BRAIN TO SEND
ABNORMAL SIGNALS. THESE SIGNALS CAN LEAD TO SEIZURES, WHICH ARE SUDDEN
BURSTS OF ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY IN THE BRAIN. SEIZURES CAN VARY IN
INTENSITY, WITH SOME CAUSING LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS OR UNCONTROLLED
MOVEMENTS, WHILE OTHERS MIGHT GO UNNOTICED. IT'S IMPORTANT TO
REMEMBER THAT EPILEPSY IS NOT A MENTAL ILLNESS BUT A CONDITION THAT
AFFECTS BRAIN FUNCTION.
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
2. Seizures come in different forms. The two main types
are focal seizures and generalized seizures. Focal
seizures begin in one part of the brain and may cause
unusual sensations, behaviors, or movements.
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain and
can lead to loss of consciousness and convulsions.
Understanding these types helps in recognizing and
responding to seizures effectively.
TYPES OF SEIZURES:
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
3. What Causes
Epilepsy?
THERE IS NO SINGLE CAUSE FOR EPILEPSY. IT CAN BE TRIGGERED BY BRAIN
INJURIES, INFECTIONS, STROKES, OR GENETIC FACTORS. IN SOME CASES,
THE CAUSE REMAINS UNKNOWN. GENETIC FACTORS MEAN THAT EPILEPSY
CAN RUN IN FAMILIES, BUT MANY PEOPLE WITH EPILEPSY DON'T HAVE A
FAMILY HISTORY. EACH CASE IS UNIQUE, AND UNDERSTANDING THE
POSSIBLE CAUSES CAN HELP IN FINDING THE RIGHT TREATMENT.
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
4. Seizures can look different depending on the type.
Common signs include uncontrollable jerking
movements, staring spells, or sudden falls. Some people
may experience unusual sensations, like a strange smell
or feeling dizzy before a seizure starts. If you notice
someone displaying these symptoms, it's important to
stay calm and ensure their safety until the seizure
passes.
SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR:
RECOGNIZING SEIZURES
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
5. Diagnosing Epilepsy:
How Doctors Identify
the Condition
TO DIAGNOSE EPILEPSY, DOCTORS USE A COMBINATION OF TESTS,
INCLUDING ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM (EEG), WHICH RECORDS BRAIN
ACTIVITY, AND BRAIN SCANS LIKE CT SCANS OR MRIS. THESE TESTS HELP
DOCTORS LOOK FOR ANY ABNORMALITIES IN THE BRAIN THAT MIGHT CAUSE
SEIZURES. DIAGNOSIS IS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN UNDERSTANDING THE
CONDITION AND CHOOSING THE BEST TREATMENT PLAN.
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
6. Epilepsy is typically managed with medications called
antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). These drugs help prevent
seizures by controlling brain activity. In some cases,
surgery or devices like a vagus nerve stimulator may be
considered for those whose seizures don't respond to
medication. Working closely with a doctor ensures that
each person receives the best treatment for their
situation.
TREATMENT OPTIONS: HOW
EPILEPSY IS MANAGED
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
7. Living with Epilepsy:
Tips for a Better
Quality of Life
PEOPLE WITH EPILEPSY CAN LEAD FULL, ACTIVE LIVES WITH THE RIGHT
SUPPORT. MAINTAINING A REGULAR SLEEP SCHEDULE, REDUCING STRESS,
AND AVOIDING SEIZURE TRIGGERS LIKE FLASHING LIGHTS OR LACK OF SLEEP
CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE. IT'S ALSO IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE WITH
EPILEPSY TO INFORM FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND COWORKERS ABOUT THEIR
CONDITION SO THEY CAN PROVIDE HELP IF NEEDED.
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao
8. There are many myths about epilepsy. For example,
some people believe that epilepsy is caused by mental
illness or that people with epilepsy cannot live normal
lives. The truth is that epilepsy is a medical condition
that affects the brain, and with the right treatment, most
people with epilepsy can manage the condition and lead
fulfilling lives. Educating others helps reduce stigma and
provides support for those affected.
MYTHS AND FACTS: BUSTING
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT
EPILEPSY
Scan QR code for more Information
https://bit.ly/416P0ao