What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy, is a neurological disease that occurs as a result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This disease can cause people to have seizures. Affecting more than 50 million people worldwide, epilepsy is a condition that one in every 100 people may experience at some point in their lives. In Turkey, approximately 1 million people struggle with this disease.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
Epilepsy disease manifests itself with various types of seizures. These seizures can sometimes be in the form of brief loss of consciousness or uncontrolled muscle contractions. The symptoms of epileptic seizures are:
- Loss of consciousness
- Uncontrolled movements in muscles
- Eyes wandering
- Changing moods
- Repetitive movements
How Is Epilepsy Diagnosed?
Epilepsy diagnosis, neurologists It is diagnosed through a series of tests performed by the . The most common of these tests are:
- Brain Electrical Activity Test (EEG): It detects epileptic activities by measuring brain waves.
- Brain Imaging Tests: Abnormalities in brain structure are examined with MRI or CT scans.
- Physical examination: The patient's medical history and details of seizures are taken into consideration.
Epilepsy Treatment Methods
Epilepsy treatment varies depending on the patient's condition and the type of seizure. Treatment methods include:
- Medication: Antiepileptic drugs can be effective in controlling seizures.
- Surgical intervention: If the source of the seizures is in a specific area, surgical removal of that area may be considered.
- Diet: Special diets, such as the ketogenic diet, may reduce seizure frequency in some patients.
- Stress Management: Stress management is important as stress can trigger epileptic seizures.
Living with Epilepsy
People with epilepsy can live a healthy life despite their illness. However, some precautions must be taken for this. Here are some points to consider:
- Regular Use of Medicines: It is essential to use medications regularly as recommended by the doctor.
- Sleep patterns: Getting enough sleep plays an important role in reducing seizures.
- Avoiding Alcohol and Drug Use: These substances can trigger seizures.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress.
Social Awareness and Support
Epilepsy is not only a medical problem but also a social issue. Therefore, it is very important to raise awareness about epilepsy in society. Raising awareness in society can help people with epilepsy to be more active in social life. Epilepsy Awareness Campaigns play a big role in this regard. Such campaigns help to understand the disease and break down prejudices.
As a result
Epilepsy is a common neurological disease worldwide and can be managed with the right treatment and public awareness. Improving the quality of life of patients is possible by increasing the level of knowledge of society about epilepsy. Having more information about epilepsy will be an important step in reducing the difficulties that patients face.
