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Epilepsy

Causes of epilepsy, types of seizures, and modern treatment approaches.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures resulting from excessive and irregular electrical activity of nerve cells in the brain. Epilepsy affects approximately 50 million people worldwide and can occur at any age.

Seizures can occur in different forms: generalized tonic-clonic seizures with convulsions, petit mal seizures with brief loss of consciousness, and focal seizures affecting only part of the body. The type and duration of the seizure varies greatly from person to person.

Causes of epilepsy include brain developmental disorders, head trauma, stroke, brain tumors, infections, and genetic factors. In some cases, no definite cause can be identified. With appropriate medication therapy, approximately 70% of patients can lead a seizure-free life.

Symptoms

Sudden-onset loss of consciousness and convulsions
Momentary blank stare and freezing for a few seconds
Involuntary movements in a specific part of the body
Post-seizure drowsiness, headache, and fatigue
Automatic movements such as lip smacking and swallowing
Visual or auditory hallucinations (in focal seizures)

Risk Factors

Family history of epilepsy
History of head trauma or brain surgery
Stroke, brain tumor, or brain infection
Premature birth or birth trauma
Febrile convulsions due to high fever (in childhood)
Alcohol and drug abuse

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Specialist evaluation is mandatory the first time a seizure occurs
  • If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes (status epilepticus — emergency)
  • If the patient does not wake up or breathing does not normalize after the seizure
  • If injury has occurred during the seizure
  • If seizure frequency increases despite medication

Treatment Methods

01
Antiepileptic drug therapy (medication and dose determined by your physician)
02
Ketogenic diet (especially in drug-resistant epilepsy in children)
03
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) — non-surgical brain stimulation
04
Epilepsy surgery (in drug-resistant cases with identifiable focus)
05
Avoidance of triggers: sleep pattern, stress management, not drinking alcohol
06
Emergency seizure plan and family education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.