Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where a disruption in the brain causes seizures. This affliction affects 1 in 26 people in the United States. Seizure symptoms can vary from person to person.
Seizures are the only symptoms of epilepsy. They can be subtle or very dramatic and can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. An epileptic seizure can often happen without warning; a person can be alert or lose consciousness. Some seizures may cause the individual to stare into space for a second or two, while more violent seizures can cause a person to fall to the ground.
According to MedicineNet.com, “The majority of epileptic seizures are controlled through drug therapy, particularly anticonvulsant drugs. The type of treatment prescribed will depend on several factors including the frequency and severity of the seizures as well as the person’s age, overall health, and medical history.”
Epilepsy therapies are best made with your neurologist, as therapies are different for each person. Find out more about treatment options and therapies.
The best way to manage epilepsy is to continue taking your medications even if you haven’t had a seizure in some time. The only time you should stop taking your medication is if your doctor says to do so.
In Sacramento and Northern California, United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) offers programs and services for individuals with epilepsy including UCP’s Adult Day program, CLASP program, and transportation services.
