34 | September 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Showcase Fighting Back BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Epilepsy might appear to be a highly dangerous condition that can not be helped. However, experts stress that there are many ways to reduce the frequency of seizures. Epilepsy is a major brain disorder. The condition results when a person having repeated seizures over time; these are episodes of disturbed brain activity that cause changes in consciousness or brain functions, where clusters of nerve cells in the brain signal abnormally. Symptoms vary from patient to patient; some may have simple staring spells, while others have violent shaking and loss of consciousness. “This condition can severely limit a patient’s school achievements, employment prospects and participation in all of life’s experiences. It strikes most often very young and very old persons, although epilepsy can be developed at any age,” explains Dr Amal Fouad, consultant neurologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH). Potential causes of epilepsy depend on age. In newborns and infants, it could be due to brain malformations, lack of oxygen during or after delivery, inborn errors of metabolism or bleeding in the brain. Drugs used during pregnancy, as well as fevers and infections, have also been found as culprits. In children, it might be due to congenital conditions, genetic factors, metabolic diseases or head trauma. Strokes and head traumas are the main causes of epilepsy in the elderly.“Diagnosing this disease is a multi-step process. We usually confirm through patient history, neurological exam and supporting laboratory, electrophysiological tests like EEG and imaging tools,” says Dr Amal. “Accurate diagnosis of the type of epilepsy is crucial for finding an effective treatment.” Treatment The decision for treatment is a highly individualised one, weighing the risks of treatment against the risks of seizures. “At BSH, the goal of all epilepsy treatment is to prevent further seizures, avoid side effects, and make it possible for people to lead active lives,” the doctor notes. Treatment may involve surgery or medication.” If seizures are due to a tumour, abnormal blood vessels or bleeding in the brain, surgery may help to prevent them. For other cases, anticonvulsants medication may reduce the number of future seizures; lifestyle or medical changes can increase the risk for a seizure in a person with epilepsy. Generally, there is no known way to prevent epilepsy. However, proper diet and sleep, and staying away from illegal drugs and alcohol, may decrease the likelihood of triggering seizures in people with epilepsy. Call 17 812-000. Dr Amal Fouad
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