Epilepsy is also known as a seizure disorder, which is related to a brain problem. A seizure is a brief disruption in regular brain activity. Seizures are the most common symptom of epilepsy. During a seizure, some people with epilepsy just see blank for a few seconds, while others move their limbs or legs frequently. A single seizure does not prove that you have epilepsy.
In short, it is a condition of the central nervous system characterised by abnormal brain activity, resulting in seizures or periods of strange behaviour, feelings, and, in some cases, loss of consciousness.
There are mainly four types of epilepsy, and they are:
- Focal epilepsy
- Epilepsy with both widespread and focal features
- Generalised epilepsy
- Unknown epilepsy
There are a number of ways to prevent epilepsy, and each one has its own benefits. Here are the five most important methods:
Vaccination
Certain vaccinations can help reduce your risk of developing epilepsy. The majority of available vaccines protect against infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, polio, and tetanus. Some also protect against brain tumours caused by cancer cells or birth defects called neural tube defects.
Diet
A healthy diet is essential for overall health, but it is also essential for lowering your risk of epilepsy. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat meats, and lipids (fatty acids) all include important vitamins and minerals that help in brain development. Carbohydrate-rich foods, such as bread and sweets, should be reduced or avoided entirely if you want to avoid seizures.
Exercise
Regular exercise helps improve blood flow throughout the body, which can improve cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP). CPP is a measure of how well blood flows through the brain’s arteries and veins; lower CPP levels have been linked with increased rates of seizure occurrence in people with epilepsy.
Stress Reduction techniques
Reducing stress levels can help diminish uncontrolled seizures occurring. Along with this, you will also make sure your home is free of any potential triggers. Keep your environment cool and dark. Avoid flickering lights, strobe lights, and other sensory stimuli that can trigger seizures.
Quit smoking cigarettes or using nicotine products
Smokers could face an increased risk of developing both adult-onset diabetes mellitus type II (formerly known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus or GDM), stroke, respiratory illnesses including pneumonia, and kidney disease. Smoking cigarettes or using nicotine increases the severity of epilepsy.
Hence, persons with epilepsy will live longer if they take their medication and have a happy attitude. However, some people are at a higher risk of dying young. Consider living a healthy lifestyle and establishing behaviours that can be an antidote to your epilepsy seizures.
Bharosa Community service is there to support if needed to manage the symptoms of Epilepsy as we have expert staff and allied health for further treatment and interventions. Talk to us if you have any kind of enquiry or need help; Bharosa is always available for you.