Epilepsy

Epilepsy care

Epilepsy is a tendency to have repeated seizures. A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can change movement, awareness, feelings or behaviour for a short time. With the right diagnosis and treatment, many people with epilepsy lead full lives.

Epilepsy is a special interest of Dr Anand Diwan. He completed an Epilepsy Summer Fellowship at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA, is an International Diplomate of the American Board of Clinical Neurophysiology (including the Epilepsy Monitoring Track), and has completed the VIREPA epilepsy courses, including pediatric epilepsy.

Signs that may be seizures

• Recurrent seizures or fits
• Loss of consciousness
• Staring spells
• Uncontrolled movements
• Confusion
• Aura (warning sensations before an episode)

How epilepsy is diagnosed

The most important part of the diagnosis is a clear description of the episodes, from the patient and from someone who has seen them. A short phone video, if it can be taken safely, is very helpful. Tests that may be advised, all done at Narayani Hospital, include:

• EEG, which records the brain's electrical activity,
• Video EEG, which records EEG and video together, including epilepsy monitoring,
• blood tests and a CT scan of the brain when needed. Your doctor may also advise an MRI scan.

Long-term care

Dr Diwan provides diagnosis and long-term care of seizures in adults and children, including difficult-to-control (refractory) epilepsy. Treatment is planned for each person and reviewed at follow-up visits.

• Take medicines exactly as advised and do not stop them suddenly.
• Keep a record of any seizures and bring it to your visits.
• Tell us about other medicines you take, and if you are planning a pregnancy.

Seizure first aid

Family members and carers should know what to do during a seizure. Read our seizure first aid guide.

Seizures