Keppra 500 mg are among the antiepileptic drugs prescribed by doctors to help people with epilepsy. Do you know that seizures are two different conditions despite the terms being used interchangeably? Seizures are a single event which is in contrast with epilepsy as it is defined as unprovoked seizures of 2 or more. Thus, people with epilepsy definitely have had seizures but on the contrary, those who had seizures are not confirmed with epilepsy. This is because other conditions not related to the brain, such as low blood sugar and heart disease, can cause seizures.
The definite cause of epilepsy remains unknown. Geneticity is theorised as one of the main causes for developing epilepsy. 1 in 3 people with epilepsy does have a positive history of family members having been diagnosed with epilepsy, according to studies. Damages to the brain such as severe head injury, drug abuse, stroke, brain tumour, excessive alcohol, brain infection such as meningitis or encephalitis, genetic conditions or congenital abnormalities associated with brain malformations and lack of oxygen during birth, are among the causes leading to epilepsy.
Possible symptoms include staring blankly into space, uncontrollable jerking and shaking known as a “fit”, losing consciousness, strange sensations including vision, hearing or taste and tingling feeling in arms or legs and stiff body. The characteristics of seizures are dependent on the location in the brain area affected when the disturbance starts and how it progresses. Primary generalised epilepsy describes epilepsy that starts from both sides of the brain simultaneously. Focal seizures or known as partial seizures affect a single brain area and are associated with epilepsy.
Epilepsy can be controlled with medications. Anti-epileptic drugs are usually the main treatment. There are many types of anti-epileptic drugs available to treat epilepsy. Choices of medicine will depend on the seizure type. Antiepileptic drugs work to reduce the severity and frequency of the symptoms in 2 out of 3 people. Certain cases may benefit from partial removal of the brain through surgery. In epilepsy treatment, some doctors may recommend the use of vagus nerve stimulation. This treatment involves implanting a device under the skin of the chest area, and works with regular transient electrical pulses delivered by vagus nerve to the brain. Despite the presence of medical management, there are natural ways of controlling epilepsy such as ketogenic diet and relaxation techniques from qualified practitioners.
Some people might wonder if there are other things that can be done apart from taking medications to help control seizures. There are actually ways to control seizures by using the natural approach. Remember, epilepsy may go away but it will take a long time, both modern medicine and natural remedies. Epilepsy can be treated naturally as follows:
1) Ketogenic diet- Diet high in fat and low in carbohydrate. Research shows that a ketogenic diet reduces the frequency of seizures and helps to improve mental clarity. This diet led to a ketosis process in the body which involves breaking down protein in the muscles. This chemical reaction suppresses seizure activity. Many people find it hard to follow this type of diet and the Atkins diet may be the next best thing next to a ketogenic diet as it is less restrictive.
2) Herbal remedies- Ingredients such as flavonoids in plants might benefit those with seizures. The effects of flavonoid such as balancing the brain chemical known as neurotransmitter, prevent inflammation of the brain cells and prevent oxidative stress from damaging the brain. Examples of these include curcumin, cat’s claw, milk thistle and American ginseng. The downside of herbal remedies is that there is no known dosage or recommendations on using these herbs can concretely reduce seizures.
3) Supplements- Taking supplements such as vitamin B6, vitamin E, taurine and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce seizure frequency. Besides supplements, eating food high in such nutrients should be able to provide the same benefits, in fact better than what supplements can.
4) Relaxation- Stress and anxiety may increase risk of having a seizure. Relaxation techniques such as body massage, reflexology and essential oils such as lavender can help a person feel relaxed. It is best to seek advice from a qualified practitioner before involving with any relaxation session.
In essence, epilepsy can be managed with antiepileptic medication and natural remedy. Self-management is the best way to take care of yourself. It is important to know how to manage the condition so that you can have a fulfilling life. This includes taking your medicine regularly, talking to your doctor if there’s something wrong with your medicine or the way you’ve been lately, learning to identify triggers for seizures, such as flashes or bright lights, and exercising regularly with caution. Patients should also keep their mind open for conversation with friends and family or loved ones for support.