Epilepsy is a neurological disorder caused by unexpected and uncontrollable brain activity called seizures. In this article, we will examine in more detail what epilepsy is, its symptoms, causes and treatment options.
This disease is a condition that can affect all age groups and affects millions of people around the world. However, many people do not have enough information about it. This can negatively impact the lives of patients and their families. This article aims to raise awareness about epilepsy and help people living with this disease by providing basic information about it.
If everyone is knowledgeable about it. It can create more support and understanding in our society. It can help people living with this disease live a better life. Now, let’s start looking more closely at epilepsy.
What is Epilepsy?
It is a sudden and uncontrolled discharge of neurons in the brain. As a result, the patient has involuntary convulsions, emotional changes and changes in consciousness. This disease occurs in the form of seizures. In the period between such seizures, the patient is a healthy person. It should be noted that a person having a seizure only once in his life does not mean that he has epilepsy.
Symptoms
Epilepsy symptoms vary from person to person. One or more symptoms may occur at the same time. Not all symptoms may be observed. Example: Loss of consciousness, hallucinations, jumps in arms and legs, repeated, unexpressed feelings and emotions, smell, sound. a strange and inexplicable feeling, tingling in the arms and legs, feeling a moment that he lived before, etc. . Falling, convulsions, foaming at the mouth, and urinary incontinence may occur in large seizures.
Causes of Epilepsy
During the disease, the cause of its occurrence cannot be determined precisely. It is thought that genetic factors, brain injuries, infections and some chemical imbalances may be effective. However, in many cases of epilepsy the cause remains undetermined. This disease can occur at any age from childhood.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In order to make a diagnosis, an accurate description of the seizures must be established. For this reason, the information given by people who observe seizures during patient examination is also important. The disease is prescribed and monitored by neurologist (neuropathologist) doctors.
This disease is treated with drugs. Drug treatment can reduce seizures by 70%. Regular intake of medicines during the treatment period plays a big role. However, there are groups of patients who do not respond to drug treatment. In practice, it is seen that childhood epilepsies can go away on their own with age. But there are forms that last a lifetime. In patients who do not respond to drug treatment, a form of surgical treatment can be applied.
Epilepsy and Social Awareness
Epilepsy, as a neurological disorder, is a complex and diverse condition. It can affect many different age, gender and lifestyle groups. It may negatively affect patients’ quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people can get it under control. They can lead a normal life.
It is important to raise awareness of epilepsy and provide more support in the community. Individuals with epilepsy and their families need to be conscious and educated in order to better cope with this situation. Knowledge and understanding can increase public awareness of epilepsy. It can offer a better future to individuals living with this disease.
Remember that this disease is not anyone’s fault or fault. We can support individuals with epilepsy by approaching them with empathy and understanding. We must do our best to help people living with epilepsy live healthy and happy lives.