Seizures and Epilepsy

At Manoshanti Neuropsychiatry Clinic, we are committed to helping individuals with seizures and epilepsy lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Seizures can be overwhelming and disruptive, but with proper diagnosis and care, they can be effectively managed.
What Are Seizures?
Seizures occur due to sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can vary in intensity and presentation, ranging from mild episodes with brief confusion to severe convulsions.
Common Symptoms of Seizures:
- Temporary confusion or staring spells.
- Sudden, uncontrollable jerking of arms and legs.
- Loss of consciousness or awareness.
- Psychological symptoms like fear, anxiety, or déjà vu.
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. It can affect people of all ages, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Key Facts About Epilepsy:
- Not all seizures mean epilepsy; a diagnosis requires at least two unprovoked seizures.
- Epilepsy is not contagious, and it has no impact on intelligence or mental health in most cases.
- With appropriate treatment, up to 70% of epilepsy cases can be well-controlled.
Types of Seizures
Seizures are classified into two main categories:
- Focal Seizures (Partial Seizures):
- Originate in one specific area of the brain.
- Can be simple (without loss of consciousness) or complex (involving altered awareness).
- Generalized Seizures:
- Affect both sides of the brain.
- Subtypes include:
- Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Intense muscle stiffening and jerking.
- Absence Seizures: Brief episodes of staring or blinking, common in children.
- Myoclonic Seizures: Sudden, brief jerks or twitches of the muscles.
- Atonic Seizures: Sudden loss of muscle tone, causing falls.
Causes and Triggers
Seizures can have various causes, including:
- Brain injuries or infections.
- Genetic factors or family history of epilepsy.
- Stroke or tumors.
- Developmental disorders like autism.
Triggers that may provoke seizures include:
- Sleep deprivation.
- Stress or anxiety.
- Alcohol or substance use.
- Flashing lights (photosensitivity).
When to Seek Medical Help
If you or someone you know experiences a seizure for the first time, seek medical attention immediately. Consult a doctor if:
- Seizures recur without a known cause.
- The person doesn’t regain consciousness after a seizure.
- Seizures last longer than 5 minutes.
- There’s an injury or breathing difficulty during a seizure.
How Manoshanti Neuropsychiatry Clinic Can Help
We specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of seizures and epilepsy. Our goal is to provide personalized care to improve your quality of life.
Our Services Include:
- Comprehensive Diagnosis:
- A detailed medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests like EEG, MRI, or CT scans to determine the cause and type of seizures.
- Medication Management:
- Tailored anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) to control seizures effectively with minimal side effects.
- Lifestyle Counseling:
- Guidance on sleep, diet, and stress management to reduce seizure triggers.
- Advanced Treatments:
- Options like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) or ketogenic diets for difficult-to-control epilepsy.
- Support and Follow-Up:
- Regular follow-ups to monitor treatment progress and provide ongoing support.
Living with Epilepsy
With proper care, people with epilepsy can lead normal, productive lives. Here are some tips to help manage epilepsy:
- Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications consistently.
- Seizure Triggers: Identify and avoid potential triggers.
- Safety Precautions: Avoid activities like swimming or driving without medical clearance.
- Support Networks: Join epilepsy support groups to connect with others who understand your journey.
Why Choose Manoshanti Neuropsychiatry Clinic?
At Manoshanti Neuropsychiatry Clinic, we combine medical expertise with compassionate care. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you manage seizures and epilepsy effectively, empowering you to live confidently and independently.