How is Epilepsy Treated?

People with epilepsy have repeated seizures as a result of a long-term brain disorder. One seizure does not constitute epilepsy - about half of people who have one seizure never have another. Seizures can also be caused by other conditions such as fever, diabetes, heart problems, and alcohol withdrawal. Epilepsy is more than one condition; rather, it is a group of conditions which can lead to seizures.

The quest for a better understanding of the causes, symptoms, and treatments of epilepsy continues to this day. The goal is not simply to understand the disease and its complications, but also to develop effective treatments and preventative measures that will keep patients safe.

Thankfully, advances in technology and diagnosis have made it possible for doctors to focus on what they do best—treating patients with epilepsy who need help. With the right approach, treating epilepsy isn't as difficult as you might think. Below, NYC neurologist David Schick shares some ways your doctor can help you get well—and stay well—even though you have epilepsy.

 

Keep an Eye Out For Any New Symptoms

When someone has epilepsy, it's often the first thing doctors notice. However, it's important for patients to watch out for new symptoms as well as complications that may arise from having the condition. These could include depression, anxiety, insomnia, and an increase in the number of migraines or other headaches. Other common conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those described above include brain tumors, stroke, prolonged mental illness, Addison's disease, glaucoma, metabolic diseases, and many others.

 

Set Up a Systematic Record of Your Condition

One of the best ways to identify any new problems you're experiencing is to keep a systemized record of your condition, explains doctor David Schick. This could be a journal, a website, a spreadsheet, or any other method you choose to keep track of your symptoms and health conditions. This record should include any therapeutic or diagnostic interventions you've had, what happened during each visit, and the results (if any). You should also keep a record of any and all medical interventions, including but not limited to, surgeries, medications, and diet changes. You should also note any improvement you see with the initial condition and any follow-up visits.

 

Monitor Your Health Condition

While having an overall health condition—like good general health—is essential to staying well, having a specific health condition should be a priority when deciding what to do about your epilepsy. The first step in this process is to monitor your health conditions closely.

 

 

Stay In The Know With Regular Care Updates

Regular updates from your doctor are essential to making continued progress against your condition. This could be through regular phone calls, texts, and emails, or even more frequent visits if you're having difficulty keeping up with the schedule. You should be aware of any changes in your health condition, including but not limited to, any new symptoms, side effects, treatments, or insurance coverage issues, adds neurology specialist David Schick. Make sure you're up to date on any services or medications you may be taking.

 

Bottom Line

Epilepsy is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. The good news is that with the right approach, treatment, and accessories like a seizure patient monitoring device, it's pretty easy to deal with. Keep in mind that having a seizure does not mean you'll go on to develop full-blown epilepsy. It's possible to have partial seizures without being seizure-free. That said, having partial epilepsy is a major disadvantage and can significantly reduce your quality of life.