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Epilepsy

 

Description
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by sudden, brief changes in brain function, resulting in seizures. It is not a disease and is not contagious. Approximately 0.6% of Canadians have epilepsy, although the actual prevalence may be higher due to stigma and underreporting. Each year, about 15,500 people in Canada are diagnosed with epilepsy, with most diagnoses occurring in young children and seniors. The causes of epilepsy can vary, with 50-60% of cases having unknown origins. Known causes include brain tumors, stroke, head trauma, prenatal injuries, infections, and poisoning.

Causes
- Unknown causes: 50-60% of cases.
- Known causes:
- Brain tumors and strokes.
- Head trauma.
- Prenatal injuries (e.g., infections during pregnancy).
- Brain injuries during delivery.
- Infections (e.g., meningitis, viral encephalitis).
- Substance abuse or poisoning.


Seizure triggers:
- Stress, poor nutrition, missed medication.
- Flickering lights, illness, fever, allergies.
- Lack of sleep, strong emotions.
- Heat and humidity.


Symptoms
Epilepsy manifests in two main types: Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy (genetic, affecting the entire brain) and Symptomatic Partial Epilepsy (caused by brain damage, affecting specific brain areas).

Idiopathic Generalized Seizures:
- Falling down.
- Convulsions.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Biting the tongue.
- Loss of bladder control.
- Stiffening of the body.
- Twitching motions.


Symptomatic Partial Seizures:
- Jerky movements.
- Staring or confusion.
- Emotional changes.
- Repetitive actions.
- Tingling or dizziness.


Treatments & Therapies
Treatment for epilepsy begins with medication, and other options are considered if medication is ineffective.

Medication:
- Some individuals may become seizure-free, while others may see reduced frequency and intensity of seizures.
- Side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, loss of bone density, speech and memory problems, depression, and inflammation of organs.


Surgery:
- Used when seizures originate in a specific, non-vital area of the brain.
- For vital areas, surgery may be performed while the patient is awake to monitor functions.


Therapies:
- Vagus nerve stimulation: A device implanted in the chest sends electrical impulses to the brain, reducing seizures by 20-40%.

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