Understanding Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. Causes can vary, including genetic factors, brain injury, infections, or developmental disorders. In many cases, the cause is unknown.

Types of Seizures

• Focal Seizures: Start in one area of the brain. Symptoms depend on the affected brain region.
• Generalized Seizures: Involve all areas of the brain from the onset. Types include absence, tonic-clonic, myoclonic, and atonic seizures.

Diagnosing and Treating Epilepsy

• Diagnosis: Involves a detailed medical history, neurological examination, Electroencephalogram (EEG), and sometimes brain imaging (MRI/CT).
• Treatment: Primarily with Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs). Other options include dietary therapies (like ketogenic diet), Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), or epilepsy surgery for medication-resistant cases.

Understanding Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are conditions that prevent you from getting restful sleep and can cause daytime sleepiness and dysfunction. Common types include Insomnia (difficulty falling/staying asleep), Sleep Apnea (breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep), Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), and Narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness).

Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Disorders

• Diagnosis: May involve sleep diaries, clinical assessment, and specialized tests like Polysomnography (sleep study).
• Treatment: Varies by disorder. Includes lifestyle changes (sleep hygiene), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, medications for RLS or narcolepsy.

When to See a Neurologist

Consult a neurologist if you experience recurrent seizures, symptoms suggestive of epilepsy, or persistent sleep problems that affect your daily functioning, mood, or health.