10/03/2024
*Epilepsy* is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affecting approximately *65 million people worldwide*. It can significantly impact daily life, social interactions, and overall well-being.
Epilepsy is defined as two or more seizures occurring within a 24-hour period, with no underlying cause or trigger.
*_Types of Epilepsy_*
1. *Focal Epilepsy (partial seizures):* Originates in one brain region
2. *Generalized Epilepsy (grand mal seizures):* Affects entire brain
3. *Temporal Lobe Epilepsy:* Originates in temporal lobe
4. *Frontal Lobe Epilepsy:* Originates in frontal lobe
5. *Idiopathic Epilepsy:* No known cause
6. *Symptomatic Epilepsy:* Underlying medical condition (e.g., brain injury)
*_Causes and Risk Factors_*
1. Genetics
2. Head trauma
3. Brain infections (meningitis, encephalitis)
4. Stroke or cerebral vasculature disorders
5. Brain tumors
6. Developmental disorders (autism, Down syndrome)
7. Prenatal or perinatal injuries
*_Symptoms_*
1. Seizures (convulsions, muscle contractions)
2. Loss of consciousness
3. Confusion, disorientation
4. Memory lapses
5. Mood changes (anxiety, depression)
6. Sleep disturbances
*_Seizure Phases_*
1. *Aura (warning signs):* Unusual sensations or emotions
2. *Ictal phase (seizure onset):* Loss of consciousness, convulsions
3. *Postictal phase (recovery):* Confusion, fatigue
*_Diagnosis_*
1. Medical history
2. Physical examination
3. Electroencephalogram (EEG)
4. Imaging tests (MRI, CT scans)
5. Blood tests (infection, electrolyte imbalance)
*_Treatment Options_*
*_Medications_*
1. Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin)
2. Benzodiazepines (e.g., clonazepam)
3. Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital)
*_Surgery_*
1. Temporal lobectomy
2. Hemispherectomy
3. Corpus callosotomy
*_Alternative Therapies_*
1. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)
2. Ketogenic diet
3. Acupuncture
4. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)