People with epilepsy have seizures that happen for no reason over and over again. It affects millions of people around the world, and the symptoms range from short loss of consciousness to long-lasting seizures. It can be hard to live with epilepsy, but thanks to progress in medicine, there are now more treatment options than ever before. Anyone who is affected by the situation needs to know about these choices.
Epilepsy is a long-term illness that causes seizures to happen over and over again. What is a seizure, though? A seizure is an abrupt, out-of-control electrical disturbance in the brain that can change how a person acts, moves, feels, and is aware of things. The severity and length of seizures can vary a lot; some are barely visible, while others can be very difficult to control.
Usually, seizures can be broken down into two main groups: focused and generalized. Seizures that start in one part of the brain are called focal seizures. Most seizures happen on both sides of the brain. The way someone is treated often depends on the type of seizure they are having. To make the best care plan for each person, it’s important to understand these differences.
Medication as the First Line of Defense
Medication is the first thing that most people with seizures do to get better. Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are meant to lessen the number and intensity of seizures. These medicines work by keeping the brain’s electrical activity stable. This stops the abnormal messages that cause seizures.
At South Valley Neurology, a team of experienced neurologists carefully looks at each patient to figure out which medicine will work best for them. Several things affect the choice of medicine: the type of seizures, the patient’s age, their general health, and any other medicines they may be taking.
It’s important to remember that medicines can make seizures a lot less likely to happen, but they might not stop them completely. Because of this, the treatment plan may need to be checked on and changed on a frequent basis.
Advanced Treatment Options
Other treatment options are available for patients who do not respond well to medication. These include dietary therapies, neuromodulation, and, in some cases, surgery. However, it is important to note that South Valley Neurology focuses on the neurological management of epilepsy and does not perform surgeries or provide rehabilitative therapies. Instead, they collaborate with other specialists when these interventions are necessary.
Dietary Therapies
One alternative treatment option for epilepsy is dietary therapy. The ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, has been used for decades to help control seizures in some patients, particularly children. In order for the diet to work, the body has to burn fats instead of carbs for energy. This makes ketones, which are brain chemicals that stop seizures.
At South Valley Neurology, the team can provide guidance on the ketogenic diet and work with nutritionists to ensure patients receive the necessary support to maintain this regimen. It is important to understand that while the ketogenic diet can be effective, it is not suitable for everyone and should only be undertaken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Neuromodulation
Neuromodulation is another advanced treatment option for epilepsy. To help lessen the number and severity of seizures, people use tools that send electrical signals to the brain. Two common types of neuromodulation used in epilepsy treatment are Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) and Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS).
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): A small device is put under the skin in the chest and sends electrical waves to the vagus nerve in the neck. These pulses help keep the brain’s electrical activity in check and lower the number of seizures that happen.
Response Neurostimulation (RNS): RNS is a type of neuromodulation that works more precisely. Putting a device in the brain that watches electrical activity and sends electrical stimulation when it sees patterns that aren’t normal and could cause a seizure is needed.
Looking to the Future: Emerging Treatments
As research in epilepsy continues to advance, new treatment options are emerging. Some of these include gene therapy, novel medications, and more sophisticated neuromodulation devices. While these treatments are still in the experimental stages, they hold promise for the future of epilepsy care.
South Valley Neurology stays at the forefront of these advancements by continually educating their team and staying informed about the latest research. Their neurologists can give their patients the most up-to-date and successful treatments because they are committed to continuing their education.
Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of epilepsy can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment plan, it is possible to manage the condition effectively and improve the quality of life. South Valley Neurology offers a comprehensive approach to epilepsy management, focusing on the services that neurologists provide while collaborating with other specialists when necessary.
Whether through medication, dietary therapy, or neuromodulation, there are numerous ways to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. The goal at South Valley Neurology is to give patients the information and tools they need to live full lives, no matter what their diagnosis is. By working closely with their neurologists, patients can navigate the challenges of epilepsy and explore the latest treatment options available today.
