There is no known “cure” for Epilepsy. Medications can often control seizures, but they are not a cure. Some forms of Epilepsy occur only in childhood, and the person is said to have experienced resolved Epilepsy. In some cases there is a spontaneous remission of the seizure disorder. Sometimes, surgery to remove the part of the brain in which the seizures originate can produce a complete and permanent stop to seizures.

What kinds of treatments are available?

When a physician diagnoses Epilepsy, a specific treatment can be recommended. The treatment prescribed by the physician is designed to control the seizures and help the patient to carry on a healthy life, participating in all normal activities, including most sports. The two major kinds of treatments are drug therapy and surgery.

Are there drug treatments for Epilepsy?

Treatment of Epilepsy is primarily through the use of special anti-convulsive drugs (AEDs). There are many different types of these drugs, and the type prescribed will depend upon the particular needs of the individual. The drugs are prescribed either alone or in a combination. The various drugs or combination of drugs control different types of seizures.

Do these drugs have side effects?

Many medications for Epilepsy have side effects. These can range from mild to severe, and will differ depending on the drug and dosage. Some of the more common side effects of anti-epileptic drugs (AED) are: drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, irritability, hyperactivity and depression.

What is a “blood level”?

“Blood level” refers to the amount of anticonvulsant in the blood. It is measured with a simple blood test and is used to help determine if a patient’s symptoms may be due to toxicity or to side effects of medication. It is also used to determine if the patient is taking enough medication to prevent seizures. The therapeutic range for different AEDs has been determined by testing blood levels in thousands of patients whose seizures are controlled and who are not experiencing toxic effects.

What are the symptoms of a drug level being too high- Toxicity?

Too high of a drug level may cause a person to experience side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, breakthrough seizures, unsteadiness, and nausea. This may require a reduction in dosage or a change to a different medication.

How much do the drugs cost?

The cost of the AEDs will depend on the dosage levels needed, the drug being used, and the amount in each prescription. There is usually a difference in price between a drug’s brand name and its generic equivalent. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic one is available for you to use, and if it is appropriate.

Is it necessary for all people with Epilepsy to be on medication?

Treatment of epilepsy is primarily through the use of AEDs. There are many different types of drugs and the type prescribed will depend upon the particular seizure pattern of the individual. If someone has been seizure free for several years, the doctor may decide to slowly withdraw the medication.

When is surgery used to treat Epilepsy?

Surgery is used only after the failure of two medications, and only in a small percentage of cases where the injured brain tissue causing the seizures is confined to one area of the brain and can be safely removed without damaging personality or functions. It is estimated that 80% of people living with Epilepsy are candidates for Epilepsy surgery, while only 2% of individuals are undergoing brain surgery.

What is the likelihood that my child will outgrow a seizure disorder?

The likelihood of a child outgrowing a seizure disorder is difficult to answer. Sometimes children do experience resolved Epilepsy, while for others the seizures may stay the same or intensify with age. Some people experience the same type of seizures throughout their lifetime. Some Epilepsies are known to almost always remit (for example, Benign Rolandic Epilepsy or Epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes and rolandic seizures), some are known to usually remit (e.g., childhood absence) and some are known to almost never remit (e.g., Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy). The medical community cannot predict who will continue to have seizures and who will not, but they feel that the sooner Epilepsy is diagnosed, the better it can be controlled.

Is there a special diet for people with Epilepsy?

Good nutritional habits and a healthy life style may assist in the maintenance of optimum seizure control. Experiencing a drastic weight change may mean that either a chemical or metabolic imbalance is occurring and you should consult your physician. Though some AED may cause nutrient deficiencies in some people, a well balanced diet will usually prevent this. Also see KETOGENIC DIET.

What is a Ketogenic diet?

A Ketogenic diet is very rich in lipids (fats) and oils, but low in proteins and carbohydrates. This unusually high intake of lipids and oils creates a condition in the body know as “ketosis”. The metabolic shift that is created increases the seizure threshold for some. This diet is also calorie and liquid restricted.

The Ketogenic diet is mainly effective in children. It requires careful preparation and strict adherence. Although it takes a significant commitment to be successful, many children have greater seizure control with this diet than with conventional (drug) therapies. Some are able to reduce or eliminate anti-seizure medications. Careful medical supervision is essential when using this as a therapy.