NERVOUS SYSTEM

Treatment for epilepsy includes a variety of medications and surgical procedures purposed to reduce or ultimately eliminate seizures. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain. When an epileptic has an episode, a seizure occurs and other symptoms such as convulsions, involuntary body movements, and unusual behavior are common. The severity of epileptic seizures varies. Some persons experience mild seizures that last for a few seconds. On the other hand, many epileptics experience life-threatening seizures that cause their entire body to shake uncontrollably. This may be followed by tongue biting and loss of consciousness. Because mild seizures can advance, it is important for all epileptic patients to receive regular evaluations from a qualified physician.

There are more than 12 medications available for epilepsy. The effectiveness of each medication differs, and depends on the patient's condition. After a variety of tests determines the severity, patients can begin treatment for epilepsy. Initially, physicians prescribe one specific medication. If this medication does not decrease or control seizures, a different medication is prescribed. This process continues until an effective treatment is found. Epilepsy patients may also experiment with new medications. However, these drugs have not been approved by the Federal Drug Administration.

Another treatment for epilepsy is surgery. Surgical procedures are risky, but effective. Since many seizures originate in the brain, surgeons can attempt to remove the part of the brain causing the seizure. This surgery requires anesthesia. On the other hand, awake brain surgery entails the patient remaining conscious. Throughout this procedure, doctors need to evaluate the patient's speech and movement. Therefore, it is critical that the patient stays alert. In this case, epilepsy is caused by hotspots on the brain. Removal of such hotspots should alleviate symptoms. An addition treatment for epilepsy is vagus nerve stimulation. This procedure is only approved for patients older than 12. To reduce the intensity or frequency of seizures, a vagus nerve stimulator is implanted under the skin.