- Epileptic Seizure
Epileptic seizure is the emergence of temporary findings and complaints due to sudden abnormal and excessive discharge of a group of brain cells.
Epilepsy, which was first considered as a brain disease by Hippocrates, is a clinical condition in which the brain's predisposition to epileptic seizures and the cognitive, psychological and social consequences of this condition can be seen. To be considered as having epilepsy, at least one seizure must be experienced. At the same time, in addition to having at least one seizure, the basic concept is that there is a disorder in the brain that increases the likelihood of having a seizure in the future.
Epilepsy is quite common. In various studies, the prevalence in society has been found to be between 5-8 years. The incidence is higher in children under the age of one. A specific cause can be identified in 30-35% of cases. The most common causes under the age of 15 are congenital structural disorders, trauma and brain damage due to lack of oxygen.
When evaluating a patient with an epileptic seizure, one of the first things to do is to determine the type of seizure. Classification of seizures is very important in choosing the appropriate anti-epileptic drug.
20% of patients diagnosed with epilepsy are due to reasons other than epilepsy. EEG is important in distinguishing conditions such as syncope, convulsions, repetitive dizziness, tics, tantrums and masturbation from epilepsy. It should be kept in mind that both conditions can occur in the same patient.
Epilepsy is a chronic, recurrent event. In 60-70% of patients, the disease can be controlled with medication in a short time. Changes in EEG sometimes disappear over a longer period of time. It is necessary to continue treatment for a period of 2-4 years following complete seizure control.
- Caffeine,
- Cola,
- Alcohol,
- Factors that stimulate seizures, such as insomnia,
- Hunger
- Excessive exercise
Factors that stimulate seizures should be avoided.
Antiepileptics should be used slowly. The absence of recurrence of seizures within 2-5 years after slow tapering and discontinuation is an indication that it is a definitive treatment. How early are seizures identified and diagnosed? If it responds to pileptics, the better the prognosis.
A pediatrician should not forget that the abnormalities expressed in the EEG report are meaningful only when they are compatible with clinical findings, except for some special cases. On the other hand, it would be beneficial to consult a pediatric neurologist in all cases where EEG abnormality is detected.
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