An Integrative Approach to Epilepsy
A seizure is an episode of change in neurologic function caused by dysfunctioning electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is an umbrella term for sudden, recurrent, and episodic seizures which are grouped into several categories based on associated symptoms. Approximately 10% of the population will have a seizure in their lifetime and a little over 50% of patients diagnosed with a new seizure will enter remission with conventional treatment.
Common causes of seizures include but are not limited to: injury at birth, head trauma, infections, metabolic disorders, genetic disease, toxic conditions, brain tumors, degenerative brain disease, stroke, or idiopathic - where no apparent cause of neurologic dysfunction is present. Chemical imbalances that often lead to higher susceptibility to seizures are further disrupted by exposure to environmental neurotoxins and nutritional deficits. Therefore, it is imperative to identify and treat the cause(s) of the seizure in order to provide the most effective treatment possible. In addition to identifying and treating the cause and using anti-epileptic drugs, there are a plethora of effective integrative treatment methods to help better control seizures.
Nutritional interventions, such as implementing a ketogenic diet, controlling serum glucose, and addressing deficiencies of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants have also been found to be beneficial adjuncts in treatment for seizure disorders.Psychological interventions, such as relaxation, cognitive behavior therapy, and biofeedback, have shown benefit when used in conjunction with anti-epileptic drugs for improved seizure control. Regular practice of meditative types of yoga has been shown to have benefits in reducing intensity and frequency of seizures.
By implementing as many integrative tools as we can, such as the few examples mentioned above, we can vastly improve the quality of life and outcomes in patients with seizure disorders
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