Epilepsy

The clinical condition, which manifests as sudden, transient, and abnormal electrical discharges in brain cells, is commonly known as epilepsy. Not every person who experiences an epileptic seizure has epilepsy. A person may experience a single seizure at some point in their life. If seizures recur over time, sometimes spontaneously or due to triggering factors, a diagnosis of epilepsy is made. Epilepsy, which does not discriminate between genders, is more common in young people and older adults.

Epilepsy disease, which can occur without any cause,

Genetic developmental abnormalities

Infections exposed while in the womb

Toxic substances

The baby is deprived of oxygen during birth

Brain infections such as meningitis after birth

Head traumas

Prolonged and recurring febrile seizures

Heavy metal or carbon monoxide poisoning

Brain tumors, stroke, brain hemorrhages

Excessive alcohol consumption may also occur due to reasons such as metabolic disorders.

Factors such as not taking medications used for epilepsy, lack of sleep and irregular nutrition can trigger seizures.

A multidisciplinary approach is required for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. It is appropriate for treatment to be evaluated by specialist neurologists in centers equipped with the necessary infrastructure for medical and surgical treatment and specialists such as neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, psychiatrists, and neuropsychologists. Treatment is carried out in two ways: medication and surgery. Medication selection should be based on the patient’s age, comorbidities, and seizure type. Some patients may require long-term, even lifelong, use of epilepsy medications. The most important aspect of medication management is the regular and planned use of medications. In addition to medication, lifestyle changes and attention to diet are crucial for successful treatment. Epilepsy surgery is generally reserved for patients who are resistant to medication.