Epilepsy

Course overview

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder of varied etiology and symptomology and its treatment depends on multiple factors, including age of onset and type of seizure. Sometimes the seizure is absent or mild enough to go untreated by medication and resolves over time. Most often, epilepsy is a life long condition that requires close medical management. Antiepileptic drug therapy often requires serum monitoring for dose adjustment and drug interaction surveillance. Screening for comorbid medical and psychiatric conditions, especially depression, anxiety, and feelings of social stigma and isolation is needed. Educating patients and families to increase awareness of epilepsy and treatment options in their unique circumstance will assist them to overcome stereotypes and help them obtain a higher quality of life.