Epilepsy is a disorder of the central nervous system that briefly interrupts the usual function of the brain, resulting in recurring seizures. The condition can be caused by head injuries, an infection of the brain, alcohol or drug abuse, prenatal conditions, high fevers or toxicity. Medication, diet and surgery can control, reduce or eliminate seizures.
Absolutely not. It is not a physical or mental illness, it is not communicable and it is not the result of an evil spirit. Various events, including head injuries, infections of the central nervous system, alcohol or drug abuse, perinatal factors and stroke are some causes. In about 70% of cases, the cause is unknown.
Yes! When treated, most people with epilepsy go to school, make friends, have jobs and families. But sometimes coping with the reaction of others can be the most difficult part of living with epilepsy.
It is estimated that around 60 million people have epilepsy at any one time, and up to 5% of the world’s population may have a single seizure at some point in their lives.
An untreated patient could have several seizures a day, with a cost in a hospital emergency room of about $3,000 per visit. Our cost for treatment is approximately $800 per year.
Yes! Approximately 75% of persons with epilepsy can achieve partial or total control of seizures. Methods include long-term drug therapy, dietary control, and, in some cases, surgery.
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked paroxysmal episodes of cerebral dysfunction, also referred to as seizures. A seizure is a sudden phenomenon that is involuntary, and short in duration. They are characterized by abnormal changes in behavior, movement, consciousness, or sensation due to abnormal electrical discharge in the brain. These episodes called seizures have lead for the condition to be also referred to as a seizure disorder.
The causes of epilepsy are many; any disease that affects the central nervous system is capable of producing epilepsy. Some of the most common causes include head trauma, stroke, brain tumors, cerebral infections, lack of oxygen, and yet some causes are genetic. However, for about half the cases, no specific cause is found.
In some cases it is, although it does not happen very often. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, even when both parents have epilepsy, the likelihood of passing on this genetic trait to their children is only between 10% to 12%.
Although epilepsy can occur within any age group, the majority of seizure disorders occur in early childhood and in later life, particularly in the elderly.
Epileptic seizures occur when a large group of brain cells called neurons, whose role is to send electrical signals throughout the body, misfire and cause a brief electrical disturbance in the brain.
Factors such as non-compliance with medication, high fever, massive sleep deprivation, stress, over-exertion, consumption of excessive alcohol or binge drinking and taking recreational drugs, for example, cocaine can make you more likely to have a seizure. Metabolic hormonal changes, environmental factors such as high heat and humidity, flickering lights, dehydration, changes in sugar levels, may also trigger seizures in people with epilepsy.
Yes. In many cases, especially the genetic types of epilepsy, children may simply outgrow the seizures as they go through adolescence and puberty. Seizures are unpredictable; they may continue to occur or
decrease with time.
In many cases, yes. The critical issue is seizure control. Florida, like the majority of states in U.S., has specific guidelines concerning driver’s licenses for individuals with epilepsy. In Florida, applicants with seizures should be seizure free for 6 months, under medical supervision, to be able to apply for licensing. However, if the individual has been seizure free for a period of two years, he or she can apply for a license without any medical supervision. Licensed drivers will maintain their license if they remain seizure free. Contact your local Division of Driver Licenses for more information.
Most people with epilepsy want to participate in a wide variety of life’s activities, including sports, exercise and fitness programs. In most cases they can participate in such programs depending on the degree of seizure control. Activities such as mountain climbing, swimming alone, scuba diving, boxing and football are higher risk activities. Always contact your doctor prior to beginning any physical sport
or activity in which a brief lapse of consciousness would significantly increase the chance of injury.
Lapses of memory and cognitive impairments are two of the most common complaints of persons with epilepsy. The type of seizure and medications may affect these mental functions. If you experience such problems, talk with your doctor.
Most people with epilepsy live a full life span. However, there are potential factors associated with living with epilepsy and seizures that may increase the risk of early death. Prolonged seizures or seizures that happen quickly, one after another (called status epilepticus), can be life-threatening. Status epilepticus can sometimes occur when antiseizure medicine is stopped suddenly. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate medical attention. Some people with epilepsy may die suddenly, without explanation. This is called SUDEP which stands for Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy. SUDEP is not well understood, although it is suspected, sometimes, to be related to heart rhythm problems during a seizure. The risk of sudden death occurs more among people with (violent) convulsive seizures, especially generalized tonic-clonic seizures that are not well controlled.
Most people don’t get hurt when they have a seizure but it can happen. There are many practical steps you can take to minimize your risk for injury in case of seizure. For example, (1) set the thermostat of the water heater low enough to prevent scalding (2) pad sharp corners; (3) try a microwave oven for cooking; (4) select chairs with arms to prevent falling; (5) hang bathroom doors so they open outwards instead of inwards (so that if someone falls against the door, it can still be opened); (6) Remove burner controls from gas or electric stoves when not in use.. Ask your local epilepsy provider for more information.
Many famous people have had epilepsy, including: Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Socrates, Napoleon Bonaparte, Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Charles Dickens, Agatha Christie, Thomas Edison, Harriet Tubman, Alfred Nobel, Peter Tchaikovsky, Richard Burton, Margeaux Hemingway and Danny Glover, among others.
A neurologist is a specially trained physician who treats diseases and disorders of the nervous system. He or she sees patients who have Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, movement disorders, neuromuscular diseases, memory disorders, brain infections, seizures, and epilepsy among others. An epileptologist is a neurologist who specializes in the treatment of epilepsy.
Typically, medical care for epilepsy begins with a primar y care physician. Many times, the primary care physician may refer you to a neurologist for more specialized care. For those without health insurance, a number of agencies, such as the County Public Health Department may be of assistance . In Florida, contact the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida. In case of medical emergency, dial 911 or the operator.
The diagnosis is suggested by the seizure history and physical exam. There are a variety of tests available to assist in the diagnosis of epilepsy. Besides the electroencephalogram (EEG), a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerized Axial Tomography (CT), Positron-Emission Tomography (PET). Scans or long-term video EEG monitoring may be used. Based on the initial consultation, the doctor will select one or more of the diagnostic tests. For the more difficult cases to diagnose, more sophisticated diagnostic tests are available.
The electroencephalogram or EEG is a very useful tool in the diagnosis of abnormal brain activity. This test measures brain electrical activity through electrodes that are attached to the person’s head. This painless procedure measures different patterns of activity in different parts of the brain. The EEG may indicate the person’s type of epilepsy. The EEG can provide supportive evidence for a person’s epilepsy when coupled clinical correlated with their medical history. However, a routine EEG is often normal in persons with epilepsy.
Sometimes, when the EEG does not provide the supportive evidence or when the results are inconclusive, the doctor may request an evaluation with a long-term continuous EEG with simultaneous video recording known as telemetry monitoring (usually during a hospital stay of one day to two weeks). Having a correlation of the recorded behavior (video) and the EEG activity, the diagnosis of epilepsy or
non-epileptic attacks can be made definitely in nearly all cases.
An MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging gives a detailed threedimensional view or image of the brain. It can help see through the skull, defining structures in the brain. CT or Computerized Axial Tomography uses a computer technology and x-rays to make a computerized image of the brain. Both are imaging devices used to find bleeding, swelling, tumors, scarring, and other anomalies within the brain.
There is not one, best treatment for epilepsy. There are, however, a number of treatment options available, including medications, surgery, the ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulation, and deep brain stimulation. Currently, new research is being conducted to discover and test innovative ways to inhibit or control seizures.
Anti-convulsants or anti-epileptic drugs work by either inhibiting or exciting the neurons to a normal level of chemical or electrical exchange. They help to prevent neurons from misfiring. The medications do not cure epilepsy but help control seizures and allow a person to regain the ability to live life as normally and confidently as possible.
Medications must be taken regularly to maintain a sufficient level in the blood stream so that it may control seizure activity with minimal to no side effects. If you do not take the medication on time, your levels may drop (sub-therapeutic) to a point where you do not have enough medication in your system to prevent seizures.
It’s quite common for people with epilepsy to miss a single dose once in a while. Often nothing happens but your risk of having a seizure may be increased. Missing one dose is more likely to cause seizures if you’re scheduled to take your medicine only once a day. Then if you miss a dose, you’ve missed a full day of medication. If you take it two to four times a day, the risk from missing one dose is less. But if you miss several doses in a row, the likelihood of a breakthrough seizure will be higher.
There are potential side effects from any medication including anti-epileptic medications. The effects vary a great deal from one individual to another. Common side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, lack of energy, nausea, headaches, difficulty concentrating unsteadiness, blurry or double vision. Some major side effects include allergic reactions, anemia, liver failure, and psychiatric reactions among others.
Any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, may have an effect on anti-epileptic medications or vice-versa. Medications that are used to treat allergies, especially the antihistamines have been associated with seizure activity in some patients. Always inform your physician or pharmacist about the medications you are currently taking before taking any new drugs.
Since 1990, a number of AEDs have been introduced making more than 30 different medications available for controlling seizures. A consultation with your doctor is required to determine which medication is best for you.
A therapeutic drug level is the amount of medication generally required in the bloodstream for a particular medication to be effective with few or no side effects. Levels serve as guides to assist in treatment when they are available. Some newer drugs do not yet have established ranges nor do they require blood level testing.
Abrupt cessation of AEDs or decreasing the dosage of your medication is not recommended unless you’re following specific instructions from your doctor. The reason for taking the AEDs is to control the seizure activity. You risk an increased number of seizures or having serious prolonged, and possibly life-threatening, seizures that may put you in the hospital.
If you are experiencing notable or unwanted side effects due to your medication (such as nausea, rash, etc.), contact your physician and describe your symptoms. Usually, by adjusting the dosage, your side effects will decrease or diminish altogether. In other cases, alternative treatments may need to be considered if side effects are intolerable.
Many name-brand prescriptions drugs may be substituted with a generic drug at a cost savings that is passed on to the consumer. However, people with epilepsy should always talk to their physician before making such a change as generic medications may induce a change in seizure control or side effect profile.
Yes, consuming alcohol may affect your AED levels and increase the risk for seizure activity.
Sexuality is an important and private aspect of life. People with epilepsy appear to have a higher incidence of sexual dysfunction than persons with other chronic neurologic illnesses. However, most people with epilepsy are able to have normal sexual lives. Studies indicate that problems with reduced sexual desire and/or sexual arousal may affect endocrine functions. If you experience sexual dysfunction, consult your physician.
AEDs may be absorbed at a different rate for each person. Doctors request a blood test to monitor the amount of medication circulating through a person’s system, i.e., to measure how much medication is in the blood stream. For AEDs to work effectively, the medication has to be available throughout the day and in the proper amount for the optimum protection from seizures.
Persons with epilepsy should strive to maintain consistently good sleep patterns and rest. Sleep deprivation or irregular sleep patterns may trigger seizures in persons with epilepsy.
Good nutrition is important for everyone. It is important that persons with epilepsy taking AEDs follow proper nutrition. Proper nutrition allows medications to metabolize properly in the body. Some AEDs may suppress or increase appetite.
Epilepsy surgery is used when medications do not help to control a person’s seizures. Neurologists look at a number of criteria. To be a candidate for surgery, a person’s seizures (1) are not responsive to drugs (2) interfere with daily activities and (3) surgery can be performed safely. Surgery for epilepsy is a viable option today for some people. If your seizures are not under control consult with your physician for more information.
The Wada test is used to assess language and memory functions in persons preparing to undergo surgery for seizures. Wada testing is used prior to epilepsy surgery for predicting the dominant speech hemisphere and memory dysfunction. The test is performed by a neurologist, a neuro-psychologist and a neuro-radiologist.
The Vagus Nerve Stimulator is a surgical device implanted under the skin in the thorax and connected to the vagus nerve at the neck with electrodes that sends a micro-electrical stimulation signal to the vagus nerve. This device may reduce the frequency or severity of seizures in persons with epilepsy. It is now considered a viable treatment option for epilepsy.
Biofeedback can be used to help some people modify their seizures. By using biofeedback, a few persons with epilepsy may be able to shorten seizures or even prevent them from occurring by slowing one type of brain activity, while increasing another.
The ketogenic diet, a diet low in proteins and carbohydrates and high in fats, is sometimes used in certain childhood epilepsies, including absence, atonic, myoclonic seizures, infantile spasms and Lennox- Gastaut Syndrome. The diet does have some short- term benefits of seizure response or control but most patients have difficulty with compliance. In some cases, particularly for the children who have had poor seizure control with other methods, your physician may prescribe the ketogenic diet. The diet may change the body chemistry in ways that may have a positive effect on seizure control. A modified, and less strict, version of the ketogenic diet exists called the Modified Atkins Diet. Either of these diets needs to be supervised by a physician or nutritionist.
Vitamins and minerals taken as dietary supplements can help with nutritional issues. The use of folate (folic acid) has been shown to reduce the potential for congenital malformation associated with the majority of anticonvulsant drugs. There is, however, no conclusive proof that vitamins and minerals can help reduce the frequency of seizures in persons with epilepsy.
Some metabolic enhancers may interfere with proper utilization of medication for persons with epilepsy. Products claiming to be natural, and there are not, falsely imply that they are safe. If you are considering using an herbal or synthetic supplement, talk to your doctor first.
Although difficult to quantify, stress during activities of daily living appears to increase the frequency of seizures in some people with epilepsy. Stress causes the release of adrenaline hormones that can increase blood circulation and breathing rates. If you can identify stressful situations and avoid them or cope with them, you might reduce the chance of having a seizure. Stress alone does not cause epilepsy.
The initial diagnosis for epilepsy is often based on information provided by the person with epilepsy, family and friends describing events and behaviors before, during, and after seizures. During the medical consultation, the physician usually obtains a complete medical history, gives you a physical examination and orders diagnostic tests such as EEGs, MRIs, CT Scans, which will help with this diagnosis. If these tests are ineffective with diagnosis, other more sophisticated tests are performed.
Epileptic seizures are seizures caused by abnormal electrical discharge of the brain. Typically an EEG recording of the electrical activity of the brain will help with diagnosis. Non-epileptic seizures are attacks that are not accompanied by abnormal electrical discharges, and are therefore not epileptic. These seizures do not respond to anti-epileptic treatment.
Pseudoseizure is an older term used to describe a psychological disorder that induces seizures of non-epileptic origin. Most often they are caused by a variety of emotional stress and other psychological and/or physiological. They are physical reactions to psychological stress (psychogenic) and may resemble epileptic seizures, although their causes differ as does their medical treatment.
Although some epileptic seizures may momentarily incapacitate persons with epilepsy, there is no medical evidence that a single seizure permanently damages the brain. However, very frequent or very prolonged seizures may cause subtle brain damage leading to the decline of intellectual function.
Status Epilepticus is a prolonged seizure or cluster of seizures occurring one after another, where the patient does not regain consciousness between seizures. This is a medical emergency. Call 911 and the patient’s physician (see question #11).
An aura is the initial warning for seizures. Some persons with epilepsy frequently describe a strange sensation or feeling just before a complex or secondarily generalized seizure, including dizziness, numbness, nausea, a buzzing in the ear, a metallic taste, a stomach sensation or strong emotions. Auras are actually simple partial seizures. Auras typically occur from a few seconds to minutes prior to the seizure. However, not always happen.
Neo-natal seizures are seizures that occur during the first four weeks of an infant’s life. Approximately 1% of all newborns will have neo-natal seizures.
Narcolepsy is a syndrome characterized by sudden sleep attacks, cataplexy, sleep paralysis and visual/auditory hallucinations at the onset of sleep. Narcolepsy usually begins in the adolescence or young adulthood. The cause is unknown. Persons with narcolepsy experience an uncontrollable desire to sleep, sometimes, many times in one day. Narcolepsy is unrelated to epilepsy.
It is a good idea for women with epilepsy wanting to raise a family to consult with their neurologist and OB/GYN for family planning prior to pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy counseling is always a good idea. The key is for the mother and child to get proper care before, during, and after pregnancy.
Because of the number of health issues involved, women with epilepsy should have coordinated health care at least 6 months prior to pregnancy. Women with epilepsy are generally considered high-risk pregnancies. Approximately 25% of women with epilepsy may have increased seizures during pregnancies while the rest of them may experience better seizure control or experience no change at all. It is important for women to see their physician regularly during pregnancy and three to four months postpartum.
The effectiveness of birth control pills may indeed be impaired when women take certain AEDs. However, not every anti-convulsant interacts negatively with birth control pills. Your physician may recommend an oral contraceptive with lower estrogen content or suggest alternative control methods or may even change your AED.
There are two issues here. First, if there is a history of non-heredity epilepsy in the family, the chances of the child having epilepsy is about the same as in the general public (1.5%). Second, if there is a history of hereditary epilepsy in the family of one parent, the chances rise to about 5%. If there is a history of hereditary epilepsy in both parents, the chances rise to about 10%. Again, pre-pregnancy counseling is recommended.
Should I change my medication? The birth of a normal baby without birth defects is a primary concern for all parents. Since all drugs present a possible danger to a developing fetus, women with epilepsy taking AEDs share their concerns that medications may pose possible risks to their baby’s development. However, withdrawing medication during pregnancy can cause prolonged seizures. Stopping medication poses a greater risk than the effect of the drugs themselves. With planned conception, your physician will address the risks and treatment options with you. With proper care, more than 90% of women with epilepsy have normal babies.
If you are planning on breast-feeding, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. Most infants do not suffer any harmful effects from traces of AEDs found in breast milk. Although some medications may be found in the mother’s milk, breast-feeding is often acceptable as long as it does not cause any side effects to the baby.
Fluctuations in female hormones around the menstrual cycled may elevate seizure frequency in some women. Seizures occurring before, during or after menstruation are known as catamenial seizures.
1% of children have some type of epilepsy, though up to 4–5% may experience one or more febrile seizures between the ages of 6 months and 5 years.
Febrile seizures, or seizures occurring with fever, are seen typically in children from the ages of 6 months to five years and are usually not related to epilepsy. Febrile seizures may occur with childhood illness such as upper respiratory tract infection, measles, mumps, chickenpox or following a vaccination.
Some seizures may impact the learning process. The cause of seizures may also be an issue. Both seizures and the side effects of some AED medications may impair the learning process. Consult your physician for more information.
There are no epilepsy medications specifically designed for children. However, many AEDs, which are effective for adults with epilepsy, are equally effective for children. Dosages may differ and some medications are not recommended for newborns nor infants.
Epilepsy should not preclude children or adults from taking part in most recreational activities and sports. Unless the child is having uncontrolled seizures, participating in any of these activities would add to the child’s quality of life. No one should ever swim alone or participate in any activity where a brief lapse of consciousness would significantly increase the risk of injury.
Epilepsy should not prevent children from participating in sports but you should review the risks carefully before letting your child take up contact sports. Contact sports could put them in danger if they were suddenly unaware of what they’re doing. Talk to your physician and inform the coaches about your child’s condition.
Teachers should know if a student has epilepsy. It’s important that you take time to discuss with teachers and school nurses how epilepsy affects your child. The more information you provide about your child’s condition, the better the teacher/nurse will be attuned to your child’s needs. Some parents may wish to conceal their child’s condition particularly if the seizures are well-controlled. Most physicians would agree this would not be in the best interest of the child.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, establishes the child’s right to a free and appropriate education that is not above or below the child’s need. Most children with epilepsy can be included in school activities such as drama, band, sports, field trips, chorus, service clubs, student government and safety patrol even if their seizures are not totally controlled. Physical Education supervision is important if the child has exercise-related seizures. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, section 504, prohibits discrimination because of disability.
A good first measure is to meet with your child’s teacher and/ or nurse. If the problem cannot be resolved, meet with the school administrator. If the problem continues, contact your school board representative. Additional resources include the Florida Department of Education, the Epilepsy Foundation, a parent advocacy group such as Parent to Parent, or the Advocacy Center for Persons with Disabilities in Tallahassee, FL at 1-800-342-0823. CHILDREN AND YOUTH CHILDREN AND YOUTH 25 26
A number of resources are available. The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida offers free educational programs for students, faculty and administrators. Your school nurse may also be available to provide education. Information is also available at www.EpilepsyFLA.org.
No, providing the teacher and the school staff with information about epilepsy helps them to know what to do when a seizure occurs. Such information may decrease unnecessary trips to the hospital. An ambulance should always be called in the event of a prolonged seizure lasting five minutes or more, the person is injured or the seizure occurred in water, even in shallow water.
Yes, depending on the type of seizures and seizure frequency. Your child may be eligible for a number of special services, accommodations and modifications or financial assistance. Check with your child’s school to access these services.
No one can accurately predict when seizures will go away. However, some children will stop having seizures during adolescence and puberty. Some types of epilepsies are often outgrown.
Yes, most teens and young adults with epilepsy will be able to live normal lives. For some this may mean going off to college. These students may face additional hurdles. This will be the first time they are away from home and responsible for their own medication, health care and diet. A realistic, optimistic and flexible attitude on the part of parents is most encouraging for the student.
Yes, family problems can cause stress in a child. Stress can lower the threshold for seizures.
Yes, proper nutrition is important for persons with epilepsy taking AEDs. Some AEDs are prescribed to be taken with meals, including breakfast.
Not necessarily. If your child’s seizures are under good control, you may want to tell only your immediately family and closest friends or those involved in your child’s care. By being straightforward about epilepsy, however, you’ll decrease some of the myths and stigmas about the disorder.
The teen years can be difficult for both parents and teens with epilepsy. Sometimes as a way of showing their independence or because of social pressure from peers, teens may stop taking their AEDs, or start using alcohol or drugs. As a result, seizure control may suffer. A way of preventing this is by having open communication between parents and teens.
The child’s age will dictate how and what you will tell him about his mother’s condition. Be honest and explain as unemotionally as possible what happens during a seizure and how the child will be able to help. You may also wish to contact the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida for family education and educational resources.
Many parents do not disclose their epilepsy to their children, fearing their children will react negatively. It’s best to tell children about your epilepsy before they witness a seizure. Explain to them what epilepsy is, what happens during a seizure, how they can help, and why you take medication. You may also wish to contact you’re the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida for family education and educational resources.
Benign Rolandic Epilepsy, the most frequent of benign partial epilepsies of childhood, typically presents as nocturnal seizures that do not result in any neurological or intellectual deficits. The categorization of this syndrome as benign refers to the tendency for the seizures to remit over time. In some cases, the patient may not need to be medicated.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy with seizures usually beginning before 4 years of age. Several types of seizures are currently seen on the same patient, they may vary in presentation and are frequently resistant to anti-epileptic medications. It is frequently associated with developmental delay and mental retardation and is one of the most difficult epilepsy syndromes to treat.
Yes. Stroke is the most frequent cause of seizures in seniors. Because arteries may become clogged or narrowed as people age, the brain may be deprived of blood and oxygen. The result may be a stroke. Bleeding in the brain may also result in seizures.
It is known that as we age, our bodies begin a natural and physiological deterioration process that can make epilepsy more likely to occur. Other health problems associated with epilepsy (including brain tumors, heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, mental alertness, and increased sensitivity to medications) may also contribute to the difficulty of treating epilepsy in seniors.
Yes, aging along with other health issues can affect the way medication is metabolized. That is why it is important for seniors to have frequent neurological check-ups. Sometimes, lower doses of medications may be required.
Yes, especially when they are taking a combination of medications that may lead to altered mood or changed behavior. Some medications may negatively interact or change the effect of other drugs.
No, you should never stop taking an AED abruptly without first consulting your physician. To do so might raise your risk for increased seizures.
Taking a number of medications daily may be hard to track. They may cause negative side effects or reduce the effectiveness of other prescribed drugs. If you are seeing various specialists, be sure each knows what medications you are taking.
Most adult living facilities and nursing homes are licensed and approved to care for persons with epilepsy and other health conditions.
Having someone available to take care of your elderly father at home is one solution. Other alternatives include having family members and neighbors periodically stop by to check on him; carpeting floors; using padded furniture; clearing trip hazards; and using electronic tracking or motion devices and other technology. You may also contact trained professionals who can provide help in these areas, including occupational and rehabilitation specialists.
Yes. There have been many advances in the field of epilepsy care during the last 40 years, including new medications, surgical options and techniques, implantable electronic devices, diagnostic testing, and a better understanding of how the brain works. SENIORS SENIORS 31 32
Yes, it is. Many epilepsy patients go through periods of denial, anger and depression after receiving the diagnosis of epilepsy. Most, through time and counseling, will learn to cope with feelings and lead productive lives once again. However, researchers have noted a higher incidence of depression among patients with epilepsy than the general population or others with chronic conditions such as diabetes. Patients with epilepsy usually respond well to antidepression medication and with lower doses.
Come prepared. Be honest with your physician about how you feel physically, mentally, and socially and report any seizure you have had since your last visit. Keep an accurate seizure calendar and bring a list of all the medications (and dosages) you are taking. Prepare questions prior to the consultation. Learn as much as you can about epilepsy and its treatment. Good open communication between physician and patient is a must in the treatment of epilepsy. Bringing a caregiver, relative or friend to the medical visits can enhance the accuracy of what you report and learn from the doctor.
The neuro-psychological evaluation is used to measure brain function such as cognitive impairment, short and long-term memory deficits, mood, behavior, personality, and other functions in persons with epilepsy. It also measures how the quality of life in these persons has been affected.
The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida offers support groups. Other possibilities include contacting your local United Way or your physician.
Yes, people with epilepsy can do most jobs depending on the quality of their seizure control. The unemployment rate for people with epilepsy is significantly higher than that of the general population, and many people who do work are underemployed. One study shows that persons with a seizure disorder have better safety and productivity records than other workers. However, the employee with epilepsy should keep risks at the minimum (operating heavy machinery, working with heights, driving, etc.).
Not necessarily, although it may be a good idea. It may be best to tell your employer if your seizures are not fully controlled. Providing them with information will enable them to help you if a seizure occurs and help them better understand your medical condition. You do not have to tell employers during the interview process unless the issue is addressed, e.g., through driving restrictions. The American with Disability Act (ADA) was passed to protect employees who have a disability. The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida can provide you with additional information on disclosure of epilepsy in the workplace.
Studies show that most employees with epilepsy have good attendance records and that workplace accidents are no more frequent in employees with epilepsy than other employees.
If you work with a company that offers an employee health group plan, you can obtain insurance. There will probably be a one-year to eighteen month pre-existing clause for epilepsy though that is subject to change soon with the passing of the Health Care Reform Plan. Otherwise, it will be more difficult to obtain insurance. You will need to contact insurance companies for information about price and coverage.
Always try to resolve this matter first with your employer. If this does not meet your satisfaction, you may call the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission office for assistance. The national Epilepsy Foundation may have a list of attorneys willing to assist you on a pro bono basis.
If you’re following a regular medical treatment and your seizures remain uncontrolled, Epilepsy Disability claims may be filed through the office of Social Security. Talk to your doctor and contact your local Social Security office for information regarding this process.
