In what consists of epilepsy? What are the symptoms? What type of exam should be done when having an epilepsy seizure? These questions were posed to Dr. Inès Pécot, a neurologist at Beaujon Hospital in Clichy. A meeting in partnership with AP-HP (Public Assistance – Hospitals of Paris).
France Info: What is epilepsy?
Inès Pécot: It is a neurological disease characterized by repeated seizures of epilepsy. What is an epilepsy seizure? It is a sudden event that occurs abruptly and is manifested by an excessive discharge of electricity in a network of neurons within the brain, either a limited network, known as focal seizure, or the entire brain, known as a generalized seizure.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms differ depending on whether it is a focal or generalized seizure. In a focal seizure, they depend on the location of the focus in the brain. They can include visual disturbances, hallucinations, abnormal and involuntary movements, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, or more complex sensations like a dream-like feeling.
“Epilepsy affects about 1% of the French population, which is nearly 600,000 people in France.”
A seizure can occur suddenly, even in individuals not known to be epileptic. The most impressive form is the generalized seizure, during which the patient loses consciousness and experiences large abnormal movements: the body becomes rigid, followed by tremors. The seizure generally lasts about five minutes before stopping.
What should be done when a person has an epilepsy seizure?
If someone is having an epilepsy seizure, it is important not to panic, even though it may be very impressive. It is crucial to note the time the symptoms start and their duration, as this information is vital for doctors.
You can recognize an epilepsy seizure by the symptoms mentioned earlier. The patient may also bite their tongue, bleed from the mouth, or lose urine. It is important not to try to restrain the person, as the force exerted is too strong. Simply clear the space around them and prevent them from injuring themselves with nearby objects.
During the seizure, nothing should be placed in the person’s mouth as they may swallow it and choke. Call emergency services once the seizure begins. Generally, by the time they arrive, the seizure will have ended.
“After the seizure has stopped, the person should be placed in a lateral safety position to prevent choking.”
What type of exam should be done during an epilepsy seizure?
After an epilepsy seizure, the person is usually taken to the emergency room for some tests to ensure there are no serious issues. In the weeks following the seizure, a brain imaging test, usually an MRI, is performed to look for any lesions that may be the cause of the epilepsy. Then, an EEG (electroencephalography), which records the electrical activity of the brain, is conducted by a neurologist to pinpoint the location of the epilepsy.
What treatments are available today for epilepsy?
There are many medications available to treat epilepsy. After a first seizure, it is not always necessary to start treatment. The decision depends on the test results and the circumstances in which the seizure occurred. It is the neurologist’s role during the consultation to decide whether treatment is needed. It is possible, and even likely, that after a first seizure, no treatment will be prescribed. If treatment is necessary, the choice of medication depends on the patient’s history and the type of symptoms.
New medications for epilepsy are emerging. They are increasingly effective and, most importantly, have fewer side effects. Patients are encouraged to visit the International League Against Epilepsy website to learn more and, if needed, participate in research protocols.
