Epilepsy

Epilepsy causes seizures that can happen at any time, making daily life unpredictable and stressful. The board-certified neurologists at Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute’s offices in Bethlehem, Lilburn, and Braselton, Georgia, offer advanced treatments for epilepsy. With their help, you can manage your condition successfully and minimize daily stress. Call your nearest Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute office to arrange an epilepsy consultation or book an appointment online today.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes people to have seizures. A seizure happens when there’s unusual electrical activity in the brain. These episodes can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, or levels of awareness.

Not all seizures look the same. Some people fall, shake, or lose consciousness. Others may just look blank or make small, repeated movements. A seizure may last from a few seconds to several minutes.

There are several types of epileptic seizures. Focal seizures start in one section of the brain and may cause unusual movements or feelings. Generalized seizures that affect both sides of your brain can cause shaking, staring spells, or even loss of consciousness.

Some people have absence seizures, where they briefly stop and stare. Others may have tonic-clonic seizures, which cause stiffening and jerking. Each person’s seizures are different, so an accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential.

What causes epilepsy?

Sometimes, head injuries, a stroke, or a brain infection cause epilepsy. Epilepsy often runs in families, so genetics can also play a role.

If you have a seizure, the Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute team asks about what happened, checks your medical history, and completes a physical exam. They may request one or more of the following tests:

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

EEGs measure brain waves and can show unusual patterns linked to seizures.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

An MRI produces detailed pictures of the brain that help find any damage or other problems.

Computed tomography (CT) scan

A CT scan is another type of brain image that can show injuries or tumors.

With the right treatment, many people with epilepsy lead full, active lives.

How is epilepsy treated?

Ways to treat epilepsy include:

Medication

Anti-seizure drugs are the most common treatment. They help control brain activity and reduce seizures.

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)

During VNS, your provider places a device in your chest that sends signals to your brain and prevents seizures.

Rarely, surgery might be an option if nothing else works and your seizures severely disrupt daily life.

It’s essential to take medication as prescribed to manage epilepsy effectively and follow up with Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute regularly. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.