Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain characterized by repeated seizures. A seizure is a sudden alteration of behavior due to a temporary change in the brain’s electrical functioning. Anyone can develop epilepsy. Have you recently had a seizure? Are you looking for a neurologist in Westport? Neurological Specialists P.C. is an independent and privately owned practice since 1963. Here at Neurological Specialists they are committed to providing their patients with superior neurological care in their state-of-the-art facility. Continue reading below to learn more about epilepsy.

Causes of Epilepsy

• Genetic Influence
• Head Trauma
• Brain Abnormalities
• Infections
• Prenatal Injury
• Developmental Disorders

Symptoms of Epilepsy

The symptom of epilepsy is seizures. The types of seizures vary. Not every person with epilepsy will experience the same seizures. Some people may stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others may twitch their arms or legs. Just because you have 1 seizure does not mean you have epilepsy. To be diagnosed with epilepsy, you must have at least 2 seizures without a known trigger that happen at least 24 hours apart.

Seizure Signs Include:

• 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

Things To Avoid If You Have Epilepsy

• Not taking your epilepsy medication
• Not getting enough sleep
• Stress
• Alcohol and other drugs
• Flashing or flickering lights
• Missing meals

How To Treat Epilepsy

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms you should seek help from a doctor immediately. In most cases, doctors begin treating epilepsy with medication. If you do not respond properly to the medication you may require surgery or another treatment. In addition to medications and surgeries, there are other options like therapies that offer an alternative for treating epilepsy, including vagus nerve stimulation, ketogenic diet, deep brain stimulation, and responsive neurostimulation. Getting diagnosed with epilepsy and determining your treatment path can be scary, but Neurological Specialists offer state-of-the-art equipment to aid in diagnosing and treating many neurological conditions including epilepsy. 

Contact Neurology Specialists A Neurologist in Westport

If you believe you have epilepsy and are looking for a neurologist in Westport, contact Neurological Specialists P.C. today.