Epilepsy is commonly diagnosed with the help of genetic testing and radio imaging

1. Genetic Testing: Genetic testing may provide more insight into the nature of epilepsy and treatment options for certain individuals. The majority of genetic testing is done on children, however some adults with epilepsy may also benefit from it.
2. Blood testing: Signs of infections, genetic disorders, or other illnesses that may be linked to seizures can be found in a blood sample.
3. Imaging: Imaging is used to diagnose epilepsy by finding either electric nerve stimulation issues or other brain abnormalities
   • Electroencencephelography: Your brain’s electrical activity is measured by this test. Seizures are associated with specific aberrant electrical patterns.
   • Scans: Doctors use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to check for anomalies in blood vessels, infections, or tumours.

Possible treatments for epilepsy include:

1. Medication: Most cases of epilepsy can be controlled by controller approved medication. The Drug Controller General of India. Epilepsy medicine can lead to seizure-free lives for many children and adults. The right medicine and dosage can be complex, considering factors like condition, frequency, age, and other medications. Healthcare providers may prescribe a single medicine at a low dose, gradually increasing it until seizures are well controlled. There are over 20 different types of anti-seizure medicines available, with the type of seizure, age, and other health conditions determining the appropriate time to stop taking them.
2. Surgery: Epilepsy surgery is a treatment option when medications don’t control seizures. It involves removing the brain area causing seizures, usually in a small, well-defined area, without affecting vital functions. Minimally invasive approaches like MRI-guided stereotactic laser ablation can help manage symptoms. After surgery, patients may continue taking medication to prevent seizures, but may be able to take fewer and reduce doses. However, surgery for epilepsy can cause complications, including permanent changes in thinking abilities. It’s important to consult with the surgical team about success rates and complication rates.
3. Device Stimulation
   • Vagus Nerve Stimulation
     Vagus nerve stimulation is a device implanted beneath the chest to control seizures. It sends bursts of electrical energy through the vagus nerve and to the brain, reducing seizures by 20% to 40%. While most people still need anti-seizure medicine, some may be able to lower their dose. Side effects may include throat pain, hoarse voice, shortness of breath, or coughing.
   • Deep Brain Stimulation
     Deep brain stimulation involves implanting electrodes into the thalamus, connected to a chest generator, which sends electrical pulses to the brain at regular intervals, potentially reducing seizures, especially for those whose seizures persist despite medication.
   • Neurostimulation
     Deep brain stimulation involves implanting electrodes into the thalamus, connected to a chest generator, which sends electrical pulses to the brain at regular intervals, potentially reducing seizures, especially for those whose seizures persist despite medication.
4. Dietary Enhancements: Epilepsy patients can lessen seizures by eating a ketogenic diet, which includes breaking down fats for energy rather than carbohydrates. This diet may help children and adults stay seizure-free for a few years, but it requires regular observation and medical counsel. Ketogenic diet side effects include dehydration, constipation, delayed growth, and uric acid buildup, which can lead to kidney stones if not managed appropriately. Low-glycemic index and modified Atkins diets provide less restrictive options.