Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures, which are episodes of sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary in severity, from brief staring spells (absence seizures) to loss of consciousness with uncontrolled movements (tonic-clonic seizures). While seizures may seem alarming, epilepsy is one of the most common brain disorders and is often manageable with treatment. In fact, 60-70% of individuals diagnosed with epilepsy can achieve seizure control with proper care.
NGPG Neurology offers specialized expertise to diagnose and treat epilepsy, with trained epileptologists on staff. Epileptologists are neurologists with board certifications in both neurology and epilepsy. We also offer our inpatient Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) for patients with epilepsy or seizures that may be difficult to diagnose or treat.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
The primary symptom of epilepsy is recurrent seizures. Seizures are categorized into two main types: focal and generalized. Each type affects the brain differently and presents with distinct symptoms. Most people with epilepsy experience the same set of symptoms with each seizure episode.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures occur due to abnormal brain activity in one specific area of the brain. These seizures may or may not affect consciousness.
- Focal seizures with impaired awareness
The individual appears awake but exhibits repetitive movements or behaviors and does not respond to their surroundings. - Focal seizures without loss of consciousness
These seizures cause sudden changes in physical or emotional sensations, such as muscle twitching, tingling, nausea or mood swings.
Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures involve abnormal electrical activity across the entire brain. The most common subtypes include:
- Absence (petit mal) seizures
Short episodes (5-10 seconds) of staring and loss of awareness without muscle movement. - Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
Sudden loss of consciousness, full-body stiffening and rhythmic muscle jerking lasting several minutes.
Other types of generalized seizures can include sudden muscle stiffness, complete loss of muscle tone causing collapse or rhythmic jerking movements.
What causes epilepsy?
The exact cause of epilepsy is not always known. However, when a cause is identified, it is often due to a structural change in the brain, such as:
- Brain tumors
- Stroke
- Autism
- Severe head trauma
- Viral encephalitis
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing epilepsy, including a family history of epilepsy, advanced age, dementia and conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain.
How is epilepsy diagnosed & treated?
Diagnosing epilepsy
A diagnosis of epilepsy requires at least two unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart. If you experience a seizure, it is important to report all details to your doctor.
If epilepsy is suspected, you may be admitted into our Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU), which is our specialized unit at NGMC to help diagnose and determine a treatment plan for seizures.
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical history and neurological exam
A comprehensive assessment of symptoms and potential causes. - Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A test where sensors are placed on the patient’s head to detect brain activity. EEGs sometimes show where in the brain a seizure begins. - Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI)
Advanced imaging to identify structural brain abnormalities. - Blood tests
Laboratory testing to rule out infections or metabolic disorders. - Neuropsychological testing
A series of cognitive function assessments with no machine involvement.
Treatment for epilepsy
Epilepsy treatment aims to control seizures and improve quality of life. Options may include:
- Anti-seizure medications
Most epilepsy cases are managed with medication. Your doctor will prescribe a specific drug based on seizure type and effectiveness. - Surgery
In cases where medication is ineffective, surgery may be an option to remove the affected brain tissue. - Medical devices
Some patients may benefit from implantable devices that regulate brain activity, such as vagus nerve stimulators. - Dietary therapy
In certain cases, especially in children, specialized diets may help manage seizures.
Choose NGPG for Epilepsy Care
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Neurology offers specialized epilepsy care, featuring board-certified neurologists, epileptologists and an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. We provide comprehensive diagnostics and the latest treatment options to help patients achieve seizure control and improved well-being.