Epilepsy is mainly treated by Cannabidiol, which especially includes anticonvulsant drugs. Doctors prescribe drugs for Epilepsy depending upon several factors like the frequency and severity of the seizures and the individual’s age, his general overall health, and medical history. An accurate identification of the type of epilepsy is also vital to choosing the best treatment. The common tests are done to diagnose Epilepsy are:
- A complete physical and neurological evaluation of muscle strength, Reflexes, vision, hearing, and ability to detect many sensations
- Blood tests to assess your overall health and to rule out other possible causes for the seizures, such as low glucose levels or diabetes.
- An electrocardiogram ECG test to record the electrical activity in the heart.
- An electroencephalogram EEG tests to measure electric impulses in the brain.
- Imaging studies of the brain, such as magnetic resonance imaging MRI.
- Other tests, if needed might include magnetic resonance spectroscopy MRS, positron emission tomography PET, and single-photon emission computed tomography SPECT.
Treatment for Epilepsy
Medication
There are lots of drugs available to treat epilepsy. Brand name anticonvulsants are preferred by physicians but many insurance companies may not cover the cost consequently, it is far better to begin taking a generic anticonvulsant medication. But remember, if the desired control is not achieved the individual should start taking the brand name medication
The drugs used to treat epilepsy have specific side effects. Depending upon the dose of Cannabidiol Epilepsy, type of medication and the plan of therapy the side effects change. Patients with higher doses generally have more side effects, but they tend to lessen with time as the body adjusts to the medicine. There are three types of side effects.
- Common side effects – These side effects occur with any epilepsy medication since it affects the nervous system. These side effects include blurry or double vision, fatigue, sleepiness, unsteadiness, and stomach upset.
- Idiosyncratic side effects- These are infrequent and unpredictable reactions which are not dose-related that are largely seen as skin rashes, low blood cell counts, and liver issues.
- Particular side effects- These are those that are not shared with other drugs in the same class. Your physician will discuss any exceptional side effects before prescribing the medication.
The Ketogenic diet
This is a diet which is very high in fat, low in protein and nearly carbohydrate-free. This diet may be effective in treating difficult-to-control seizures in some children. There are some other complementary therapies like aromatherapy that May assist the individual to relax and relieve stress. But, they have never been proven effective to restrain or in preventing seizures. Some individuals suffering from epilepsy grow anxious or depressed because of their condition. In such circumstances, counselling might help to overcome such conditions.