Epilepsy is a brain condition that occurs due to abnormal electrical brain activity. These repeated brief episodes of sudden electrical changes are called seizures. They temporarily affect the body’s movement, such as uncontrollable twitching, shaking or jerky movements of the face, limbs, or even the entire body.
World Health Organization states that approximately 5 million people are diagnosed yearly. Since it is the fourth most common neurological disorder, it is vital to look out for the major risk factors to help in the early detection of the condition. We have addressed some of the most common questions asked about people who are more susceptible to it.
Which age group is affected?
Epilepsy can develop at any age. Even though it does not discriminate amongst the age groups, it is more likely for a young child or an older adult to be diagnosed with it. The rate drops around the age of ten and stays similar for teenagers and adults. It increases again in people over the age of 55.
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Who is at a higher risk- men or women?
Population studies have shown that both men and women tend to develop epilepsy. The Rochester epilepsy study concluded that the condition is likely to be prevalent at a slightly higher rate in men than women.
One of the reasons, they suggested, for the claim was that men have a higher frequency of suffering from alcohol-related seizures or seizures due to head trauma, which can lead to epilepsy. Nevertheless, the risk of recurrence of epilepsy is similar in both sexes.
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Can a prior brain injury cause it?
A brain injury that causes bleeding or swelling can lead to epileptic seizures. This is called post-traumatic epilepsy.
These can include incidents such as falling from stairs, receiving a gunshot wound or a blow to the head. These seizures can happen immediately or may take a couple of weeks after the incident.
Do genetics, or other health conditions trigger it?
Yes, they do. If one has a family history of the disorder, they are at a greater risk of being passed with those genes from their parents. On the other hand, if someone is suffering from diseases that can possibly lead to brain damage, such as dementia, stroke and other vascular diseases, they are at a higher risk of developing a seizure disorder.
Which ethnic background is more susceptible?
Epilepsy is not limited by geography. The cases are present across all parts of the world. But, some studies have highlighted certain ethnicities where it’s more common such as individuals with Hispanic backgrounds or Asian Americans.
The scientific reason for differences has yet to be discovered. However, it may be due to differences in social or economic well-being or accessibility of treatments.
How can we help?
Annie’s Place understands how challenging it can be to navigate Epilepsy. Therefore we strive to provide our services to help improve care provision for your loved ones. Our caregivers can support them while they undergo unpredictable epileptic seizures to help manage the stress and anxiety that comes with them. They can supervise their activities to ensure their safety and even accompany them in social engagements and recreational activities.
Since the needs of patients with epilepsy can be dynamic, we can help you or your dear ones according to your unique needs. We provide custom health care, where we provide services tailored according to the best care that suits you. For more information regarding our services, please do not hesitate to call us to discuss how we can help you!