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Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurring seizures. Seizures are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause a variety of symptoms, including changes in sensation, movement, thinking, and behaviour. Manipal Hospitals Baner has some of the best neurologists in Pune to help you find the correct diagnosis for Epilepsy.
Types of Seizures
Epilepsy can manifest in various seizure types, broadly categorized into two main groups:
Partial Seizures
These originate in a specific area of the brain, causing symptoms related to the function of that region. They can further be classified as:
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Simple Partial Seizures
Individuals remain conscious during the seizure and experience localized changes in sensation, movement, or perception.
- Complex Partial Seizures
These involve altered consciousness, with individuals appearing dazed or confused and sometimes engaging in automatic behaviors like lip smacking or fidgeting.
Generalized Seizures
These involve widespread electrical discharges across both hemispheres of the brain, leading to a loss of consciousness and widespread motor involvement. Common types of epilepsy and seizures include:
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Tonic-clonic Seizures (grand mal)
Characterized by stiffening of the body (tonic phase) followed by jerking movements (clonic phase) and loss of consciousness.
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Absence Seizures (petit mal)
Brief episodes of staring into space with a blank expression and slight body movements, lasting for a few seconds.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
The specific epilepsy symptoms vary depending on the type of seizure a person experiences. However, some general signs and symptoms may include:
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Temporary loss of consciousness or awareness.
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Uncontrolled muscle movements, jerking, or stiffening.
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Staring into space
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Temporary confusion or difficulty thinking.
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Sensory changes like altered vision, taste, or smell.
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Tingling or numbness
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Emotional changes like fear or anxiety.
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Abdominal discomfort, nausea, or vomiting.
It's important to note that not everyone with epilepsy experiences all of these symptoms, and the frequency and severity of seizures can vary greatly between individuals. If you are expeinceing any of the mentioned symtpoms, it is important to consult with a team of experts at the best neurosurgery hospital in Baner.
Treatment Options for Epilepsy
Epilepsy treatment aims to control seizures and improve quality of life. The most common treatment approach involves:
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Medications
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the mainstay of treatment, helping regulate abnormal electrical activity in the brain and reducing seizure frequency.
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Surgery
For patients with medically intractable epilepsy, surgery may be an option to remove the portion of the brain causing seizures.
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Diet Therapy
In specific cases, special diets like the ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, can help manage seizures.
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Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
A pacemaker-like device implanted in the chest sends electrical signals to the vagus nerve, which can help control seizures.
Conclusion
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have epilepsy, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. At Manipal Hospitals you can find the best neurosurgeon in Baner for Epilepsy treatment and diagnosis. Early intervention and proper management can significantly improve the quality of life for people with epilepsy.
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