Understanding Epilepsy
Author: John Bunka, DO
Epileptologist at the Bronson Neuroscience Center
Epilepsy is a serious neurological disorder that can present itself in many ways. It may cause frequent seizures, loss of consciousness and convulsions. Epilepsy does not have a direct cause; however, there are factors that increase the chance of someone developing epilepsy, such as:
- genetics
- trauma or injury to head
- brain tumor or stroke
In the United States, roughly 150,000 people a year are diagnosed with epilepsy. It is found in people of all age groups, races and ethnicities, but is more often found in the elderly.
Types of Seizures
There are two major types of seizures that happen as a result of epilepsy:
- Generalized seizures: (also called grand mal or tonic-clonic seizures) affect both sides of the brain at the same time.
- Partial seizures: (also called focal or temporal lobe epilepsy) affect only one side of the brain.
Warning Signs
Common symptoms of people who are about to experience seizures are:
- sudden feelings of fear
- intense emotions
- unusual smell or taste
- buzzing or ringing sounds
- visual disturbances
Effects
The effects of epilepsy depend on the type of seizure and where it occurs in the brain. For example, a person who has a seizure in their temporal lobe (which controls memory), may not remember what happened before or after the seizure.
A seizure in the frontal lobe (which controls personality), may cause that person to act differently after the seizure. Some behavioral changes may include confusion, irritability, depression and anxiety.
Quality of Life
Coping with epilepsy can be mentally and physically draining. The impact it has on someone largely depends on how severe their condition is. Some people only experience minor setbacks, while others may have trouble in their day-to-day life.
Treatments
If left untreated for a long period of time, epilepsy may lead to:
- injuries from falling such as bone fractures and bruises
- neurological damage
- pregnancy complications
- depression and anxiety
- shortened lifespan
While there is no cure for epilepsy, there are treatment options that can help control how often seizures happen, as well as their severity. Treatment varies for each patient, but some options include:
- medications
- adequate rest
- eating healthy
- avoiding alcohol and tobacco
- other lifestyle changes suggested by your doctor
Epilepsy patients at Bronson work with the area’s only epilepsy specialists:
John Bunka, DO
Mark-Victor Siwoski, MD
They coordinate care with a group of neurology and neurosurgery specialists to provide you and your family with the comprehensive epilepsy care, support and education that you need.
