Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition affecting the brain and the nervous system characterized by repeated seizures (individual occurrences of abnormal electrical activity in the brain). It’s more commonly diagnosed in children, adolescents and people above 65. Lack of sleep, illness or fever, stress, caffeine, alcohol or drugs etc. are the triggers of the seizures disorder.

There are two major types of seizures. First is Generalized seizure that affects the whole brain. It has 6 types: Absence, Tonic, Atonic, Clonic, Myoclinic and Tonic-Clonic seizures. Second is, Focal or Partial seizures that are produced (at least initially) by electrical impulses in a relatively small part of the brain. The part of the brain generating the seizures is sometimes called the focus. It has 2 types: Simple and Complex partial seizures.

Etiology/Causes

Brain Tumor
Brain Infection
Traumatic brain or head injury
Stroke
Loss of oxygen to the brain
Certain Genetic conditions
Other Neurological conditions
Alcoholism or alcohol withdrawal
Use of unlawful drugs

Symptoms

Seizures are the main symptoms of Epilepsy.
Jerking movement of arms and legs.
Stiffing of the body.
Biting of tongue.
Loss of consciousness.
Spontaneous quick twitching of the arms and legs.
Some early signs and symptoms include – Changes in mood, Trouble sleeping, Anxiety, Problems staying focused or feeling lightheaded.

Diagnosis

A seizures disorder can be a symptom of the serious medical issue that in order to rule out the causes, doctor probably orders a complete blood count and chemistry of the blood. It helps in revealing any sign of infectious diseases, liver and kidney function. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is the most common test for diagnosis. Neuropsychology Lab at Nirvan Hospital, Kalyanpur, Ring Road, Lucknow is equipped with the most advanced NEUROCOMPACT EEG machine. Imaging test such as CT scan, MRI, Positron Emission Tomography etc. are also used to reveal tumor and other abnormalities.