Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which a person’s brain cells send signals abnormally, leading to seizures.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which a person’s brain cells send signals abnormally, leading to seizures.

Types of Seizures

Individuals with epilepsy may experience different types of seizures that fit into these two main categories:  
Focal Onset Seizures (FOS)
Seizures that begin on one side of the brain, also known as partial seizures. Focal onset seizures are the most common type of seizure experienced by people with epilepsy.
Generalized Onset Seizures
Seizures that start in both sides of the brain and affect the whole body. Generalized seizures may start as focal, and then spread to both sides of the brain.

Symptoms

Symptoms of seizures vary based on the type.
Focal onset seizures are characterized by: 
Uncontrolled movements, usually in the hands, toes, or face and on one side of the body
Sweating, excess saliva, skin color changes  
Changes in emotional state
Occasional temporary paralysis (“Todd paralysis”) in specific body parts for several hours
Generalized seizures are characterized by: 
Stiff muscles  
Loss of consciousness   
Crying or groaning   
Jerking of the arms or legs   

Diagnosis Journey

Learn more about how people who are experiencing signs and symptoms of epilepsy can be diagnosed.  
When to see your doctor
You should consult a doctor if you have experienced a seizure, suspect you have, or if others have told you that there are times in which you are unaware of what you are doing.  
Process for diagnosis
Your doctor may prescribe various tests to confirm a diagnosis of epilepsy, including:
  • Blood Tests: Evaluates metabolic and blood chemistry imbalances, toxins, and poisons.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measures brain activity through small sensors attached to your scalp. This test allows your doctor to evaluate the electrical signals produced by your brain.
  • Video-EEG Monitoring: Follows the same procedure as an EEG, while also recording your activity via video during the test.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Creates detailed images of your brain. You will lay in a cylindrical machine as radio waves are sent via pulses.
  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: Relies on a radioactive drug that is typically injected into your hand or arm, and can help detect brain disorders.
  • Magnetoencephalography (MEG): Identifies where in your brain seizures are produced. It is painless and non-invasive.
  • Spinal Tap/Lumbar Puncture: Fluid from around your spinal cord is withdrawn and examined. This test is typically used when your provider is concerned that the cause of epilepsy is due to infection or immunological brain disease.
  • Neurological Exam: Evaluates your behavior, motor abilities, and mental function.
  • Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: Uses X-rays to generate images of your brain.
  • Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT): Relies on a low dose of radioactive material injected into a vein to determine highly active areas of your brain.

If you feel that you are not receiving adequate treatment, don't be afraid to explore other physicians and specialists in order to get the care you need.

Specialists

John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

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John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link

Registered doctors

John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link
John Smith, MD

Gastroenterologist • Nashville, TN

Link

Ongoing Research and Treatment Options

More research into effective epilepsy treatment options is critical.  

Current Research Studies

Check out our featured studies below. If the X-TOLE and X-ACKT studies are not right for you, there are over 350 clinical trials actively recruiting participants with epilepsy. Search this site to find epilepsy research studies near you.  

Treatment Options

Treatments for epilepsy include:  
Medications
Diet Changes
Surgery
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)
Deep Brain Stimulation

Resources

Find an online community of fellow epilepsy patients, caregivers, and advocates below as well as some other general resources!

Epilepsy/Seizure Support and Discussion
A support group for people living with epilepsy or experiencing seizures.
Epilepsy and Seizure Support Group
A support group for people with epilepsy, families of those with epilepsy, and anyone who has been affected by epilepsy.
Reddit Group: r/Epilepsy 
A subreddit community for people who are affected by epilepsy.
Reddit Group: r/Seizures 
A subreddit community for those who experience seizures.
Valley Children's Healthcare - Virtual Support Groups
Valley Children’s Epilepsy Support Groups are offered virtually for parents of children with epilepsy and children/teenagers with epilepsy.
The Epilepsy Foundation
Organization dedicated to mitigating the challenges of living with epilepsy, promoting new treatments, and raising awareness.
International League Against Epilepsy
Organization comprised of 120+ national chapters working to ensure that health care providers, patients, caregivers, governments, and the public can access educational and research resources critical to understanding and treating epilepsy.
Epilepsy Alliance America
National organization providing support and care to individuals living with epilepsy.
CURE Epilepsy
Organization dedicated to finding a cure for epilepsy through patient-focused research.
Sharp Waves Podcast: An Epilepsy Podcast from ILAE
The International League Against Epilepsy established The Sharp Waves Podcast, which tells the stories of people who have epilepsy, physicians who treat epilepsy, and researchers who study the condition.
Living Well with Epilepsy
Visit the Living Well with Epilepsy page to view the various blogs that offer advice on living with epilepsy. There are blogs dedicated to the following subjects: motherhood, self-care, job, healthcare, and lifestyle.

You Are Not Alone: Resource Guide
Check out this guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to find resources including national organizations dedicated to addressing epilepsy and family and sibling support groups.

How to Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits
This guide from the Epilepsy Foundation outlines the process of applying for disability benefits as an individual living with epilepsy.

Assistance for Prescription Costs
This guide from the Epilepsy Foundation provides instructions on applying for a patient assistance program if you need help covering the cost of your medications.

24/7 Helpline
Contact this line at any time to connect with a trained specialist who can answer questions and provide support.

Stanford Medicine-Led Study Identifies Novel Target for Epilepsy Treatment

Read the article to learn how a little-known part of the brain may be involved in starting and maintaining seizures, according to a clinical trial.

Cutting-Edge Algorithm Improves Intracranial EEG Accuracy to Improve Future Patient Care

Check out this article to learn about research aimed at improving seizure detection and localization, ultimately enhancing outcomes for epilepsy patients.

Walk to End Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation sponsors walks to raise money and promote awareness for epilepsy. Visit the link to learn more and find out where your closest walk is taking place.

Events Supported by the Epilepsy Foundation

Visit this website to find events sponsored by the Epilepsy Foundation, including support groups, trainings, and fundraisers.

Events Supported by the International League Against Epilepsy

Check out this link to find events sponsored by the International League Against Epilepsy, including workshops, conferences, and webinars.

FAQs

How long do seizures last?
Are there risk factors for developing epilepsy?  
Do seizures always indicate epilepsy?
What kind of provider treats epilepsy?
Can epilepsy be cured?
Can somebody with epilepsy drive?
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