Epilepsy is a neurological condition which affects our Central Nervous system. Epileptic seizures are caused by disturbances in the electrical activity of the brain. These seizures may be related to a brain injury or a family tendency, but most of the time the cause is unknown.In two-thirds of patients diagnosed with epilepsy, the cause is unknown.Epilepsy can affect both male and female of any age. Epilepsy can lead to unusual behaviour, sensations and sometimes loss of awareness. 

Dr.Joseph Sirven, chair of Neurology at Mayo Clinic Arizona, says, “Epilepsy can affect anyone at any age. 1 out of 26 Americans have a risk of developing epilepsy. Some people are born with it. Some may have a genetic reason for their seizures. Head trauma, infections, strokes, hemorrhages and even Alzheimer’s disease can potentially cause seizures or epilepsy.”

Epilepsy leaves a negative impact on the people suffering with this disorder.Epilepsy is unpredictable. For example people with this disorder may not be allowed to drive or to pursue their career.This can affect the decision making of the person. People who have this disease, they are often not left alone. This disorder affects the brain which harm signals send by the brain to other parts of the body.

Symptoms

Because epilepsy is caused by abnormal activity in the brain, seizures can affect any process your brain coordinates. Seizure signs and symptoms may include:

• Temporary confusion
• A staring spell (The person suddenly seems to be absent)
• Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
• Loss of consciousness or awareness
• Psychic symptoms such as fear and anxiety

To diagnose this disease, doctors suggest to review your symptoms and medical history.Doctor may order several tests to diagnose epilepsy and determine the cause of seizures. Two techniques used by the doctor are:

• A neurological exam. Your doctor may test your behavior, motor abilities, mental function and other areas to diagnose your condition and determine the type of epilepsy you may have.
• Blood tests. Your doctor may take a blood sample to check for signs of infections, genetic conditions or other conditions that may be associated with seizures.

Technological advancements have brought a lot of solutions.

Treatments include:

• 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.

Common side effects of AEDs include:

• drowsiness
• a lack of energy
• agitation
• Headache
• uncontrollable shaking (tremor)
• hair loss or unwanted hair growth
• swollen gums
• rashes – contact your GP or specialist if you get a rash, as it might mean you’re having a serious reaction to your medicine

According to Times of India the cost of this surgery is around 2.5 lakhs INR, Which includes all the investigation and hospitalisation.