Approximately 39 million people in the world experience epilepsy with up to 5-10% having unprovoked seizures throughout their lifetime. There are many different types of seizures as well, as many different types of causes.
Genetic factors make up a very small percentage of these causes since most seizures are the result of a physical or chemical injury to the brain that causes scarring that grows microscopically over time and ultimately results in a focus of irritation on the brain's surface.
Because the brain’s surface is pleated and folded, it is not always easy to make the diagnosis of epilepsy (defined as two or more seizures). Physical injury to the brain may result from head injury, disturbances of mineral balance, alcohol, infection, or poisoning.
Seizures respond to medication treatment in approximately 70% of cases. Good therapeutic response to medications will mean better quality of life. Alternative means of treatment that enhance effectiveness include vagal nerve stimulation and surgery, including excision or laser treatment of a preselected focus of irritation.
Patients that experience seizures may experience convulsions, tongue biting, and loss of sphincter control but may also experience alteration of perception and reality depending on the location of the seizure focus and location of the irritation.
If you suffer from seizure disorders, call Tulsa Neurospecialists to learn more about our treatments and schedule an appointment.
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