About three million Americans experience epileptic seizures regularly. The symptoms of epilepsy Dallas can be debilitating for patients with the condition. A diagnosis from your healthcare provider is essential for establishing the type of seizure and appropriate interventions. Explore the causes and ways of managing the disease in the long term.
What causes seizures?
Seizures occur due to irregular neurotransmitter impulses in the brain’s nerve cells. It usually happens intermittently, occurring in waves of electrical energy. Cause problems with movement, sensations, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
One incident is not sufficient to constitute a case of epilepsy. An occasional seizure may occur in individuals with severe alcohol withdrawal. People prone to hypoglycemia may also experience seizures.
It requires at least two incidences of seizures to determine if it is epilepsy. The affected side of the body could also indicate the location of the neuron anomalies in the brain. Individuals have varying physiological makeup that determines the seizure’s profile and characteristics.
Symptoms of epilepsy
Since seizures vary between individuals, they are placed in different categories. Some people experience a flood of electrical impulses affecting both sides of the body. This type is called a primary generalized seizure.
The other category is partial or focal seizures which begin on one side of the brain. Focal aware seizure is a subcategory that indicates the patient is conscious during the incident. Focal impaired seizure describes when the individual’s consciousness is affected.
All types of seizures have some common characteristics. They may include the following:
- Muscle spasms and repeated jerking movements
- Involuntary actions such as clapping hands
- Changes in thought patterns or emotions
- Behavior arrest or a lack of noticeable movements
- Sensations affecting body processes, such as gastrointestinal activity
How to manage epilepsy
You can manage seizures by understanding and addressing risk factors that worsen symptoms. Tracking is crucial for identifying triggers causing seizures. It also helps to determine the symptoms category and the best medication for your case.
Take the time to note down seizures when they occur. Does it happen at a specific time of day or after taking medication? Do you experience seizures after an incidence of illness or lack of sleep?
The lack of adequate nighttime sleep could be one of the triggers. Seven to eight hours of sleep is encouraged. Otherwise, you may experience more seizures.
Unusual sleep-wake cycles have an impact on neurons and related hormonal activity. Observe sleep hygiene and avoid using your bed for other activities, such as watching TV. Physical activity can manage symptoms and improve your sleep-wake cycle.
Other factors that may worsen seizures include:
- Poor nutrition or inadequate food intake
- Substance abuse or alcohol consumption
- Skipping prescription medication
- Emotional stress and fatigue
Medical interventions for epilepsy
The principal treatment for many cases of epilepsy is medication. Anti-convulsants can reduce incidences of seizures and enhance your quality of life.
Some people may require more intensive interventions to manage symptoms. Other treatment options include electrical stimulation to address poor signaling between neurons. Surgery is sometimes necessary where a portion of the brain is causing the seizures.
To talk to a neurological professional, contact RHBNeuro, or schedule an appointment online today.
