Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures. These seizures are transient signs and/or symptoms of abnormal, excessive or synchronous neuronal activity in the brain. About 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, with almost 90% of these people being in developing countries. Epilepsy is more likely to occur in young children or people over the age of 65 years, however it can occur at any time.
Research for a Cure
Laboratory research examining the underlying mechanisms of seizures is being pursued.
Other areas of research include:
Cortical stimulation mapping and seizure localization
Development of devices to help predict seizures
Care and management of patients with intractable epilepsy
Seizures in older adults
Seizures in the Hispanic population
Social stigma attached to epilepsy
Anti-epileptic medication-related bone demineralization and seizure-related vertebral fractures
Seizure-related injuries
Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy
Treatment
Most people with epilepsy can become seizure-free by using a single anti-epileptic drug. Others can decrease the frequency and intensity of their seizures with medication. More than half the children with medication-controlled epilepsy can eventually stop medications and live a seizure-free life. Many adults also can discontinue medication after two or more years without seizures.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata): to both prevent and treat seizures, may be effective without side effects, especially where stress is a precipitating factor. Dose is 30 drops three to four times per day.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): antispasmodic and calmative herb
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): spasmolytic, sedative
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