Epilepsy Jessi and Jenna

Cause of disorder: In about 70 percent of cases there is no known cause. Where a reason for the onset of seizures can be identified, the most frequent causes include: Heredity - The risk of getting epilepsy is only 2.5 times greater with a family history of seizures than when no family member has had the disorder Head trauma - The more severe the injury, the greater the risk of developing epilepsy Brain tumor and stroke Poisoning - Like lead poisoning, excessive alcohol intake and drug abuse. Infection - Meningitis, viral encephalitis, lupus erythematosus, and less frequently, mumps, measles and diphtheria. Maternal injury - Infection or systemic illness affecting the fetus‘ developing brain during pregnancy.

Characteristics The following symptoms may indicate someone has epilepsy. The symptoms include: A convulsion with or without a fever Short periods of blackout or confused memory Occasional "fainting spells" in which bladder or bowel control is lost, followed by extreme fatigue Episodes of blank staring Brief periods of no response to questions or instructions Sudden stiffening or falls for no apparent reason Episodes of blinking or chewing at inappropriate times Dazed behavior; being unable to talk or communicate for a short time Repeated movements that look out of place or unnatural Sudden fear, anger or panic for no reason Odd changes in the way things look, sound, smell or feel Muscle jerks of arms, legs or body Clusters of swift jerking movements in babies

Treatments Treatment Options: Medication is the most common means of treating seizures. It is also the oldest. For many years Dilantin and Phenobarbital were the only medicines available. There are now over 20 medications available for the treatment of seizures. When medications don't work, other treatment options are considered. The most common include surgery, the ketogenic diet and Vagus Nerve Stimulation.

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2 Questions 1.Can seizures be caused from heredity? 2.What is the most common treatment for Epilepsy?