What is epilepsy?

 

A seizure is rhythmic bursts of abnormal electrical activity in your brain. This brain activity causes a temporary change in your movement, awareness, or behavior, or other neurologic function. Epilepsy is defined as having more than one seizure episode.

You may also be diagnosed with epilepsy even after only one seizure episode if EEG testing reveals electrical abnormalities that could lead to further seizures.

 

What symptoms might I experience if I have epilepsy?

 

Seizures can present in many different ways,  such as:

• Brief muscle twitches

• Jerking movements

• Whole-body spasms

• Limp or rigid muscles

• Inability to move

• Loss of consciousness

• Having staring spells

• Transient episodes of confusion

• Vision changes

• Difficulty talking
   

Seizures typically last from 30 seconds to two minutes. You may feel fine as soon as the seizure ends, or it could take several hours to regain full mental function.

 

How is epilepsy diagnosed?

 

NeuroDoc diagnoses epilepsy by talking with you about your medical history and symptoms, performing a neurological assessment, and obtaining diagnostic tests.

The most common test for diagnosing epilepsy is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which produces images of the electrical activity in your brain. You may also need blood work, an MRI, or a CT scan, depending on your symptoms.

For any laboratory testing or MRIs, NeuroDoc refers you to local facilities. EEGs however can be performed in your home. Trained technicians can come to your home to set up the testing equipment, instruct you on its use, then return to remove the equipment.

 

How is epilepsy treated?

 

One of the mainstays of epilepsy treatment are anti-seizure medications. Based on your symptoms and test results, your provider at NeuroDoc will choose from among many possible antiepileptic medications.

Prescriptions will be sent electronically directly to your pharmacy. Then you get the ongoing support you need through phone calls and online appointments with your provider.

If medications don’t work, NeuroDoc may recommend a ketogenic diet. This high fat, low carbohydrate diet is very restrictive but serves as an effective medical treatment for some epileptic patients.

If you had a seizure or need ongoing care for epilepsy, you can receive exceptional care through telehealth provided by NeuroDoc. You can fill out an online request form today.