Epilepsy is a chronic and, usually, lifelong condition. In some cases, need for medications may be reduced or eliminated over time. A physical examination and a detailed neuromuscular examination are necessary to diagnose epilepsy. It may indicate the location of the lesion causing the seizure. If a cause for the epilepsy has been identified, treatment may stop the occurrence of seizures, which could include medical treatment, surgical repair of tumors or brain lesions, or other treatments.
Oral anticonvulsants prevent or minimize the number of seizures.
Response is individual, and the medication used and dosage may have to be adjusted repeatedly. Death or permanent brain damage from seizures is rare but can occur. Death or brain damage are most often caused by prolonged lack of breathing and death of brain tissue from lack of oxygen. Us Copyright 1999 Sentara Healthcare. All Rights Reserved.