Epilepsy : A Neurological Disorder Of The central Nervous System .

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder of the central nervous system, specifically of the brain. It is characterized by the tendency to have recurrent seizures. A person would be diagnosed with epilepsy if they have at least two unprovoked (or reflex) seizures, or one unprovoked (or reflex) seizure and are very likely to have another, or diagnosed with an epilepsy syndrome. The brain is made up of billions of nerve cells or neurons that communicate through electrical and chemical signals. When there is a sudden excessive electrical discharge that disrupts the normal activity of the nerve cells, a seizure may result.

What is a seizure?

The person may experience body sensations such as “pins and needles”, smells, sounds, fear, depression, distortions of sensory stimuli, momentary jerks or head nods, staring with loss of awareness and convulsive movements.

Seizures usually last seconds to minutes, rarely longer. The period immediately after a seizure, called the “postictal period,” varies depending on the duration, intensity, and type of seizure. The most common symptoms that a person may experience immediately after a convulsive seizure are confusion, muscular ache, headache, and fatigue.

What restrictions does epilepsy impose on daily activities?

Depending on the seizure type and frequency, certain restrictions may apply. Each case must be judged individually. Consult your physician to determine what restrictions may apply to you. It is your responsibility to be straight-forward, honest, and apply common sense in any discussion regarding restrictions on activities such as driving, working at heights, or bathing and swimming alone.

Dr Anshul Mahajan 

Consultant psychiatrist