Why is there no cure for epilepsy?
There’s no cure for epilepsy, but early treatment can make a big difference. Uncontrolled or prolonged seizures can lead to brain damage. Epilepsy also raises the risk of sudden unexplained death. The condition can be successfully managed.
Are we close to a cure for epilepsy?
But unlike with other brain-related conditions, about two dozen medications can successfully treat many cases of epilepsy. Although there is no cure, these anti-seizure drugs turn the disease into a chronic, but well-managed condition for many to the point where it barely interferes with life.
Is epilepsy a life long condition?
Most people with epilepsy live a full life. However, the risk of early death is higher for some. We know that the best possible seizure control and living safely can reduce the risk of epilepsy-related death.
Does untreated epilepsy get worse?
If epilepsy is not treated, seizures may occur throughout a person’s life. Seizures can become more severe and happen more often over time.
How long can a person with epilepsy live?
These studies suggest a shortening of life expectancy in people with epilepsy, the extent of which is not known precisely. Certain authors (Carroll and Barnes, 2002) suggest this shortening to be of the order of 1–2 years if the epilepsy is well controlled and up to 5 years for very severe refractory epilepsy.
Does epilepsy shorten your life?
Reduction in life expectancy can be up to 2 years for people with a diagnosis of idiopathic/cryptogenic epilepsy, and the reduction can be up to 10 years in people with symptomatic epilepsy. Reductions in life expectancy are highest at the time of diagnosis and diminish with time.
Does epilepsy shorten life span?
Can epilepsy shorten your life?
Does epilepsy worsen with age?
Other factors that can affect your overall prognosis include: Age: Adults over the age of 60 may experience an increased risk for epileptic seizures, as well as related complications.
Can I be cured of epilepsy?
Re: Can I be cured of Epilepsy? Submitted by epihelpon Tue, 2010-05-11 12:58 People should look carefully into any treatment for epilepsy/seizures and find out as much as they can before following this. Look at published studies about outcome too.
How can I prevent grand mal seizures?
If you are prone to seizures or have epilepsy, trigger avoidance may be the best way to avoid a grand mal seizure. Eating a balanced diet and leading a healthy lifestyle may also minimize your risk of seizure. You may be able to lower your risk of grand mal seizures by: How are grand mal seizures treated?
Can epilepsy be passed to children?
The risk of passing epilepsy on to your children is usually low. Epilepsy shouldn’t be a reason not to have children. Medical testing may help people who have a known genetic form of epilepsy understand their risks. If a child does develop epilepsy, remember that many children can get complete control of seizures.
Can a grand mal seizure cause permanent damage?
While the seizure itself generally does not cause permanent damage, it is possible for injury to result during the seizure. Grand mal seizures are generally controlled with medications, surgery, or electrical stimulation. A single grand mal seizure often does not require treatment, although prompt medical evaluation is imperative.