epilepsy Flashcards
1
Q
pathophysiology
A
shift in the balance between the inhibitory and the excitatory neurotransmission
2
Q
epidemiology
A
more common in young children and older people.
3
Q
causes
A
- a stroke.
- a brain tumour.
- a severe head injury.
- drug abuse or alcohol misuse.
- a brain infection.
- a lack of oxygen during birth.
4
Q
symptoms
A
- Temporary confusion.
- A staring spell.
- Stiff muscles.
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs.
- Loss of consciousness or awareness.
- Psychological symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu.
5
Q
treatment
A
- medicines called anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs)
- surgery to remove a small part of the brain that’s causing the seizures.
- a procedure to put a small electrical device inside the body that can help control seizures.
- a special diet (ketogenic diet) that can help control seizures