WHAT IS EPILEPSY (COMPLEX PARTIAL SEIZURES)

Epilepsy is marked by repeated seizures. There are many different types of seizures, depending on which part and how much of the brain is affected. Epilepsy that causes partial seizures begins in one local area of the brain. Partial seizures are divided into simple and complex partial seizures. During simple partial seizures, people remain fully conscious and able to respond to external stimuli. During complex partial seizures, people lose consciousness briefly. Most people with epilepsy are able to control their symptoms with the use of anti-seizure medications. Surgery can sometimes be performed to remove the damaged brain cells that cause seizures.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY?  

Some sympAnxiety, Confusion, Disorientation, Blank stare, Blackouts (memory time loss), Involuntary movements (picking, lip smacking etc.), Blurred vision, Loss of consciousness, Muscle twitching (painless), Blinking eyes, Eyes rolling back, Strange smell or taste

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

Diagnosis: Diagnosis of Epilepsy is done by  a detailed review of symptoms, medical history and a physical examination, including tests of strength and reflexes. A test called an electroencephalogram, which measures brainwaves, is often used to diagnose epilepsy. Other tests that may be performed include MRI or CT scans.

Treatment:  The treatment for epilepsy depends on the  underlying condition, the doctor will recommend treatments based on the medical problem that is causing them. For epilepsy not linked to other conditions, many anti-seizure drugs are available. These can prevent and stop seizures. Medications may often need to be adjusted in the beginning. If medications don't control seizures, the Doctor may recommend surgery to remove the abnormal cells in the brain that are causing seizures. Another option is vagus nerve stimulation, which delivers short bursts of electrical energy into the brain via a large nerve in the neck. In some cases, seizures may also be controlled by following a diet very high in fats and low in carbohydrates, called a ketogenic diet.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Seek immediate and emergency medical help if a patient is having a seizure for the first time, in case a patient has been diagnosed with epilepsy and are under treatment, seek medical attention if seizure lasts more than five minutes, or patient is having breathing difficulties, experiencing persistent confusion or loss of consciousness.  
2. Tips to manage siezures

a. Getting plenty of sleep, avoiding stress, not smoking, and avoiding alcohol may help reduce likelihood of having a seizure.  

b. Stay calm 

c. Don't move the person experiencing a seizure. 

d. Don't try to interfere with the seizure. 

e. Don't try to wake the person up by shouting or shaking them. 

f. Never try to force the person's mouth open or put anything in it. 

g. Turn the person on his or her side to allow any fluid in the mouth to come out.

h. Place a pillow or something soft under the person's head. 

i. When the seizure stops, watch the person for signs of confusion. Allow the person to rest or sleep. 

j. Most seizures aren't life-threatening. Call an ambulance in when someone has had experienced a seizure or someone known to have epilepsy has a seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes.