Understanding Epilepsy, its Risk Factors and treatment of epilepsy - Epilepsy, also known as "Mirgi" in Hindi, is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can affect a variety of mental and physical functions. While epilepsy can develop in people of any age, gender, or background, there are certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. What is Epilepsy? Epilepsy is a condition that affects the central nervous system, leading to seizures that range from mild to severe. The most common symptom of epilepsy is a seizure, which can manifest in different ways depending on the part of the brain affected. These seizures can be classified as either generalized (affecting both sides of the brain) or focal (affecting a specific area). Some seizures result in convulsions and loss of consciousness, while others might cause confusion or unusual sensations without visible physical symptoms. Factors that Increase the Risk of Epilepsy 1. Family History One of the most significant risk factors for epilepsy is a family history of the disorder. Epilepsy can be hereditary, meaning that if a person has close relatives—such as parents, siblings, or grandparents—with the condition, they are at a higher risk of developing it as well. 2. Tumor or Brain Stroke Another prominent cause of epilepsy is structural damage to the brain, which can be caused by conditions such as a brain tumor or stroke. Brain tumors can disrupt normal brain function by putting pressure on surrounding brain tissue or affecting blood flow, resulting in seizure activity. Strokes, which occur when the brain’s blood supply is cut off or severely reduced, can also lead to the development of epilepsy. Strokes are particularly common in older adults, and it is estimated that post-stroke epilepsy accounts for nearly 10% of all epilepsy cases in people over 60. The likelihood of developing seizures after a stroke increases depending on the severity of brain damage caused. 3. Head Injury due to an Accident Head injuries, particularly those sustained in accidents or falls, are another significant risk factor for epilepsy. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause immediate or delayed seizures, and the severity of the injury often correlates with the risk of developing epilepsy later in life. Individuals who have suffered moderate to severe head injuries are more likely to experience post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). For example, car accidents, sports injuries, or other incidents that result in head trauma may lead to the development of scar tissue or damage to the brain's electrical circuits, causing recurrent seizures. This type of epilepsy may emerge soon after the injury, or it could take months or even years for the seizures to begin. Preventive care following head trauma, including medication and close monitoring, can help reduce the chances of PTE. 4. Brain Damage at the Time of Birth Brain damage sustained during birth or immediately after birth can lead to a condition known as neonatal seizures, which is a significant risk factor for epilepsy in childhood or adulthood. Birth complications, such as oxygen deprivation (hypoxia), premature birth, or birth trauma, can all contribute to brain injury in infants. These early injuries can lead to abnormal brain development or scarring, which increases the risk of seizures. Other Risk Factors for Epilepsy In addition to the four primary risk factors mentioned above, there are other conditions and lifestyle factors that may increase the likelihood of developing epilepsy. These include: - Infections : Certain infections, such as meningitis, HIV, or encephalitis, can lead to inflammation of the brain, increasing the risk of epilepsy. - Drug and Alcohol Abuse : Excessive use of drugs or alcohol can cause damage to the brain, potentially triggering seizures. - Degenerative Brain Conditions : Diseases such as Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can increase the risk of epilepsy, particularly in older adults. Treatment Options for Epilepsy Epilepsy treatment in Jaipur focuses on controlling seizure and the first line of treatment typically involves antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), which help stabilize electrical activity in the brain. Some of the common medications treatment of epilepsy in India include: - Sodium Valproate (Encorate, Valparin) - Carbamazepine (Tegrital, Mazetol) - Levetiracetam (Levipil, Keppra) - Phenytoin (Dilantin, Eptoin) - Clobazam (Frisium, Cobazam) For expert epilepsy treatment in Jaipur, Dr. Shariq Qureshi , a leading neurologist and psychiatrist, offers treatment of seizures. His clinic provides seizures treatments , including advanced medications and therapeutic approaches to manage seizures.