EPILEPSY

REPORTER: MARK ARVIN AÑONUEVO

 WHAT IS EPILEPSY?
Epilepsy is a non-communicable neurological disorders characterized
by recurrent epileptic seizures. An epileptic seizure is the clinical
manifestations of an abnormal. Excessive and synchronized electrical
discharge in the neuron. The occurrence of two or more unprovoked
seizure defines epelipsy. Non-communicable neurological disorders
affect the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves and muscle and the
major diseases include stroke, migraine, tension type headache,
Alzheimer's disease and dementias, parkinson's disease, chronic
recurring diseases like epilepsy and multiple schleposis and other
motor.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Focal Epilepsies (Partial Epilepsies)
Seizures start in one specific part of the brain, often called focal or localized
seizures.
Focal Aware Seizures (Simple Partial Seizures): Consciousness is
preserved. Symptoms may include unusual sensations or jerking
movements.
Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures (Complex Partial Seizures):
Consciousness is impaired, and the person may appear confused or dazed.
Focal to Bilateral Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Focal seizures that spread to
involve both sides of the brain, resulting in convulsions.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Generalized Epilepsies
These involve both hemispheres of the brain from the onset and typically
affect consciousness.
Absence Seizures (Petit Mal): Brief loss of awareness, often seen as
staring spells, common in children.
Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal): Involves a tonic phase
(stiffening) followed by a clonic phase (jerking). The person loses
consciousness and may fall.
Atonic Seizures: Sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the person to
collapse (also called "drop attacks").
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Generalized Epilepsies
Myoclonic Seizures: Brief, shock-like jerks of a muscle or a
group of muscles. Usually lasts for a fraction of a second.
Clonic Seizures: Repeated jerking movements of muscles,
usually on both sides of the body.
Tonic Seizures: Increased muscle tone or stiffness in the
muscles without convulsions.
TYPES OF EPILEPSY
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Combined Generalized and Focal Epilepsies
In this category, a person may experience both generalized and focal
seizures. The seizures can originate from a specific part of the brain
and then spread or occur in both hemispheres from the start.

Unknown-Onset Epilepsies
When the onset of seizures is unknown, they are classified here. This
is typically a temporary classification until further information about the
seizures becomes clear.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Epileptic Syndromes

These are specific conditions with a set of recognizable features,

including the type of seizures, the age of onset, and genetic or
developmental associations. Some common syndromes include:
Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME): Characterized by myoclonic
jerks, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and absence seizures. Often
starts in adolescence.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Epileptic Syndromes

Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: A severe form of epilepsy with multiple

types of seizures, including tonic, atonic, and atypical absence
seizures. Typically starts in childhood and is often resistant to
treatment.
Dravet Syndrome: A rare, severe form of epilepsy that begins in
infancy, marked by prolonged seizures and developmental delays.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Epileptic Syndromes

Childhood Absence Epilepsy (CAE): Characterized by frequent

absence seizures (staring spells) that begin in childhood and may
resolve in adolescence.
West Syndrome (Infantile Spasms): A severe type of epilepsy in
infants involving spasms, developmental delays, and abnormal brain
activity.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Structural/Metabolic Epilepsies
These types of epilepsy have a clear structural abnormality in the brain
or an identifiable metabolic cause. Some examples include:
Cortical Dysplasia: A developmental abnormality in the brain's
cortex that can cause focal epilepsy.
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: A genetic disorder causing benign
tumors in multiple organs, including the brain, leading to epilepsy.
Sturge-Weber Syndrome: A rare disorder involving abnormal blood
vessels in the brain, often leading to seizures.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Infectious Epilepsies
Seizures caused by infections, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or
neurocysticercosis (a parasitic infection of the brain).

Immune-Related Epilepsies
These occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks parts of
the brain, causing seizures. Conditions like autoimmune encephalitis
can lead to this type of epilepsy.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Neonatal Epilepsies
Epilepsies that begin shortly after birth, often due to genetic or metabolic
abnormalities. Examples include:
Ohtahara Syndrome: A severe form of neonatal epilepsy with early
onset and often poor developmental outcomes.
Benign Neonatal Epilepsy: A milder form of epilepsy that usually
resolves without long-term effects.
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Reflex Epilepsies
In these cases, seizures are triggered by specific stimuli or actions,
such as flashing lights (photosensitive epilepsy), reading, or even
eating.
Progressive Myoclonic Epilepsies (PME)
These are rare, genetic conditions that cause worsening myoclonic
seizures and other neurological problems over time. Examples include:
Lafora Disease
Unverricht-Lundborg Disease
 TYPES OF EPILEPSY
Febrile Seizures
Seizures triggered by fever, often occurring in infants and young
children. While febrile seizures are not classified as epilepsy,
children who experience complex febrile seizures may be at a higher
risk of developing epilepsy later in life.
Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)
Although not technically a form of epilepsy, psychogenic non-
epileptic seizures (PNES) are important to distinguish. They are
seizure-like events triggered by psychological factors rather than
abnormal brain activity.
RISK FACTORS OF EPILEPSY
Genetic Factors: A family history of epilepsy or other
seizure disorders can increase the likelihood of
developing epilepsy, as certain types have a genetic
component.
Age: Epilepsy can occur at any age, but it is most
commonly diagnosed in young children and older
adults, with certain types of seizures more prevalent in
specific age groups.
Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, especially
those resulting from accidents, falls, or sports, can
increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
RISK FACTORS OF EPILEPSY
Stroke: Strokes, particularly those that affect the brain,
can lead to seizures and increase the risk of epilepsy
later in life.
Infections: Infections of the brain, such as meningitis or
encephalitis, can cause inflammation and lead to
seizures, contributing to the development of epilepsy.
Developmental Disorders: Conditions such as autism
spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy are associated
with a higher risk of epilepsy.
RISK FACTORS OF EPILEPSY
Substance Abuse: The use of drugs and alcohol can
trigger seizures and may lead to the development of
epilepsy in susceptible individuals.
Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic or nutritional
disorders, such as low blood sugar or electrolyte
imbalances, can increase seizure susceptibility.
Brain Tumors: The presence of tumors in the brain can
disrupt normal electrical activity and lead to seizures.
Pregnancy Complications: Factors such as low oxygen
levels during birth or complications like preeclampsia can
increase the risk of developing epilepsy in children.
 SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY
Focal Seizures:
These originate in one specific area of the brain and can be
classified as:
Simple Focal Seizures: No loss of consciousness, but
may cause unusual sensations (e.g., tingling, dizziness)
or involuntary movements (e.g., twitching of a finger).
Complex Focal Seizures: Involves a change in
awareness or consciousness, often accompanied by
repetitive behaviors (automatisms), confusion, or a
blank stare.
 SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY
Generalized Seizures:
These affect the entire brain and may include:
Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Loss of consciousness, muscle
rigidity (tonic phase), followed by rhythmic jerking
movements (clonic phase).
Absence Seizures: Brief lapses in awareness, often
with a blank stare, lasting just a few seconds.
Myoclonic Seizures: Sudden, brief jerks or twitches of
the body, usually affecting the arms or legs.
 SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY
Atonic Seizures: Sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to a
collapse or fall, which can result in injury.
Postictal State: After a seizure, individuals may experience
confusion, fatigue, headache, or muscle soreness. This postictal
phase can last for minutes to hours, depending on the individual.
Aura: Some individuals may experience a preictal sensation
(aura) that serves as a warning sign before a seizure, which can
include unusual smells, sounds, or feelings.
Behavioral Changes: Some people with epilepsy may
experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression, either as a
result of the condition or as a response to the challenges it
presents.
PREVENTION
Genetic Counseling: For individuals with a family history of epilepsy, consulting a
genetic counselor can provide insights into the risks and implications for family planning.
Protecting Against Head Injuries: Wearing helmets during activities such as cycling,
skateboarding, or contact sports can help prevent traumatic brain injuries that may lead
to epilepsy.
Managing Health Conditions: Proper management of underlying health issues, such as
cardiovascular diseases or infections, can reduce the risk of conditions that may trigger
seizures.
Preventing Stroke: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced
diet, and managing risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes can lower the risk of
stroke, which is a known trigger for epilepsy.
Avoiding Substance Abuse: Limiting or avoiding alcohol and illicit drug use can
decrease the likelihood of seizures and the potential development of epilepsy.
PREVENTION
Taking Precautions During Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals should receive regular
prenatal care and manage conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia to
minimize risks for both mother and baby.
Vaccinations: Staying up-to-date with vaccinations can prevent infections like
meningitis, which can lead to epilepsy.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep,
and stress management can contribute to overall brain health and help mitigate seizure
risks.
Medication Adherence: For those already diagnosed with epilepsy, consistent
adherence to prescribed antiepileptic medications can effectively prevent seizures.
Avoiding Seizure Triggers: Identifying and avoiding personal seizure triggers, such as
specific lights, sounds, or stressors, can help in managing epilepsy.
 TREATMENT
Antiepileptic Medications (AEDs):
The most common treatment for epilepsy involves the use of AEDs, which help
stabilize electrical activity in the brain to prevent seizures.
There are many different AEDs available, and the choice of medication depends on
factors such as the type of seizures, individual response, and potential side effects.
It may take time to find the most effective medication and dosage for each person.

Dietary Therapies:
Ketogenic Diet: A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been found effective for
some individuals, especially children with drug-resistant epilepsy.
Modified Atkins Diet: Similar to the ketogenic diet but less restrictive, this approach
may also help reduce seizures.
 TREATMENT
Surgery:
In cases of drug-resistant epilepsy, surgical options may be considered, such as:
Resective Surgery: Removal of the part of the brain where seizures originate.
Corpus Callosotomy: Severing the corpus callosum to prevent seizure spread
between the brain hemispheres.
Hemispherectomy: Removal of one hemisphere of the brain in severe cases, typically
in children.
Behavioral Therapy:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling may help individuals cope with the
emotional and psychological aspects of living with epilepsy.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Making lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, avoiding
alcohol and drugs, and adhering to a healthy diet, can help reduce the risk of seizures.
CAREGIVER APPROACH
Educate Yourself:
Understand Epilepsy: Learn about the types of seizures, triggers, and treatments.
Familiarize yourself with the individual’s specific condition, including their seizure
patterns and any triggers they may have.
Recognize Symptoms: Be able to identify different types of seizures and know what to
expect during and after a seizure.
Safety Measures: Modify the living space to reduce the risk of injury during a seizure.
This may include removing sharp objects, padding corners, and ensuring the person has
a safe sleeping area.
Emergency Preparedness: Keep emergency numbers handy and have a plan in place
for what to do during a seizure.
CAREGIVER APPROACH
During Seizures:
Stay Calm: Remain calm and composed when a seizure occurs. This helps the individual feel
safe and reassured.
Protect the Person: Gently guide the individual to the ground if they are standing, and place a
cushion under their head to prevent injury. Avoid holding them down or putting anything in their
mouth.
Timing: Note the duration of the seizure, as this information is important for medical
professionals.
Post-Seizure Care:
Postictal State: After a seizure, the individual may be confused, tired, or disoriented. Offer
reassurance and remain with them until they are fully aware and oriented.
Hydration and Comfort: Provide water and a comfortable place to rest. Respect their need for
space if they are feeling overwhelmed.
CAREGIVER APPROACH
Medication Management
Adherence to Treatment: Help the individual manage their medication schedule, including
reminders for taking medications on time. Be aware of side effects and monitor for any changes
in behavior or health.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Regularly communicate with healthcare professionals about
the individual's condition and any concerns that arise.
Promote a Healthy Lifestyle
Encourage Healthy Habits: Support the individual in maintaining a balanced diet, regular
exercise, and sufficient sleep. Help them avoid known triggers, such as stress or excessive
alcohol consumption.
Stress Management: Introduce relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep-
breathing exercises, to help reduce stress.
CAREGIVER APPROACH
Emotional Support
Be Patient: Understand that living with epilepsy can be challenging, and individuals may
experience emotional ups and downs. Be patient and provide emotional support.
Encourage Social Engagement: Help the individual maintain social connections and
engage in activities they enjoy, while being mindful of their comfort levels and limitations.
THANK YOU!