If two parents suffer from severe headaches, then in 90 out of 100 cases their child will also suffer from migraines.

Its danger is that, in addition to a severe throbbing headache, it can also provoke more serious problems, including stroke and paralysis. But this is not all the “surprises” that the disease conceals: it is still difficult for scientists to answer unequivocally, why does migraine occur. More precisely, experts have several versions of its origin. Factors that provoke headache attacks raise no less questions. Today, official medicine names at least six causes of migraine. However, the start of an attack is usually facilitated not by one factor, but by a confluence of several. But here's the question: Who is more likely to join the ranks of migraine sufferers?(and there are about 3 million of them in the world): for people whose parents suffer from chronic headaches, or for those who do not follow a healthy lifestyle? Do gastronomic preferences and age affect the tendency to migraine? Is there a chance to protect yourself from this disease or is it inevitable, and once it starts it will constantly bother you?

What causes migraine attacks

GENETICS

More than half of migraine cases are genetic. The most famous types of diseases that are inherited are hemiplegic and ocular. Scientists have found that people with abnormalities in certain chromosomes are most likely to suffer from headache attacks.

For example, in the 19th. It is responsible for the functioning of the calcium channel passing through the brain. If any problems occur in this chromosome, then in half of the cases a person develops hemiplegic migraine.

Less often, but also quite often (in 20% of cases), the disease is caused by a malfunction of chromosome 1, which is responsible for the functions of the sodium channel.

And not so long ago, scientists discovered a region on the X chromosome that is also associated with attacks of throbbing headaches. Thanks to this discovery, it became clear why women (who, as is known, have two X chromosomes) suffer from migraines more often than men.

But scientists made a truly revolutionary discovery in the fall of 2010. Then experts discovered that any type of migraine can be the result of a mutation in the KCNK18 gene. These changes, scientists believe, make a person very sensitive to pain, including headaches.

Another interesting fact is that migraine is transmitted from parents to children in a higher percentage through the female line. If two parents suffer from severe headaches, then in 90 out of 100 cases their child will also suffer from migraines. If only the father has the disease, then the child’s risks are reduced to 20%; if only the mother has the disease, then they are approximately 70%.

The first migraine attacks most often occur at the age of 13-19 years, although there are often cases of the first headache attacks in children 5-6 years old, and in some migraines are diagnosed even at 2 years old.

As a rule, boys and girls under 12 years of age suffer from migraine pain in approximately equal numbers. After this age, the number of girls with migraines is approximately 2-3 times higher than the number of men with migraines.

In women, migraine more often occurs with an aura, and the peculiarity of an attack in the stronger sex is more excruciating pain during the attack.

Peak activity of the disease in men and women occurs between the ages of 25 and 34 years. After 40 years, the frequency of attacks decreases, and over time, for many, the attacks go away completely.

Another interesting discovery was recently made by Russian scientists. In their opinion, There is a link between migraines and cardiovascular disease. In the pedigree of migraine sufferers, relatives with hypertension are found 2 times more often than in people who do not suffer from headaches. And migraine sufferers themselves are more often diagnosed with hypertension than others.

FOOD AND DRINKS

A properly formulated diet for migraines can, if not completely eliminate headaches, then at least reduce their frequency and intensity. Wrong food, on the contrary, provokes attacks.

Most dangerous for migraine sufferers considered red wine, champagne, citrus fruits, bananas, chocolate, aged cheese, smoked meats, sausages, products with flavor enhancer E621 (monosodium glutamate). And this is not a complete list of products containing substances that can cause a headache attack.

Abuse of caffeinated drinks and then abruptly quitting them, can also result in a painful attack.

Equally important for migraine sufferers maintain a healthy eating schedule(eat 4-5 times a day) and drinking regime(drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day), since hunger and dehydration are dietary triggers for migraines.

For this reason, many women who follow a strict diet experience increased headache attacks. If a young lady who is losing weight eats dinner before 6 p.m., then she has every chance of waking up in the middle of the night with a severe migraine. The reason for this condition is a sharp decrease in glucose levels in the body.

HORMONES

The fact that hormones play almost the first violin in the development of migraines has been clear to specialists for a long time. Many researchers call the main culprit of sharp pains in the head hormone serotonin– a key substance in mood regulation. Violation of the concentration of this hormone in the brain, in fact, leads to migraines. But the level of this substance does not change on its own, but often depends on the activity of other hormones.

If we talk about changes in hormonal levels, then in the female body these processes occur much more intensely than in males. And this is another explanation why the fair sex more often complains of headaches.

In approximately 50% of young ladies suffering from pain on one side of the head, attacks strictly correspond to the menstrual cycle. In most cases, attacks coincide in time with PMS, less often they occur directly on critical days. This phenomenon in science has received its own name - menstrual migraine.

Experts call the cause of headaches before the onset of menstruation or immediately after childbirth a sharp decrease in the hormone estrogen in the female body. By the way, there is a relationship between the amount of estrogen and the type of migraine. A lack of the hormone usually provokes migraines without aura, and its excess leads to attacks with aura.

As for menopausal and post-menopausal women, then the frequency and severity of migraine attacks in them usually decreases. If this does not happen or the attacks intensify even more, then the cause should again be sought in hormonal imbalance.

In many cases, restoring general hormonal levels helps get rid of attacks.

Migraine attacks in women are also associated with pregnancy. Often in expectant mothers, migraine gets worse or even appears for the first time. As a rule, this occurs in the first third of pregnancy in the form of migraines with aura (even if the woman previously suffered from migraines without aura). From mid-pregnancy the number of attacks usually decreases.

The fact is that during this period in the female body the concentration of estrogen and progesterone increases significantly, which, working together, create an analgesic effect. Migraine returns (sometimes with complications) after childbirth.

Another factor that increases your chances of getting a migraine is taking hormonal medications, which can disturb the general background in the body. And again, women are at risk, in particular those taking contraceptives or drugs with high concentrations of estrogen.

Taking oral contraceptives against the background of migraine with aura can result in an ischemic stroke. If a woman is diagnosed with chronic migraine, it is safer for her to take progestin-only contraceptives.

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL STATE

Any strong experiences (both joyful and depressing) can cause a migraine attack. The science of psychosomatics considers the diagnosis of migraine as a result of psycho-emotional disorders.

Experts name various psychological reasons that provoke attacks in adolescents or adults. This may be an excessive desire to achieve perfection, irritation due to one’s own imperfections, constant suppression of emotions, low self-esteem, fear, resentment, a feeling of coercion always and in everything.

If this is the cause of the migraine, then it is likely that a good psychologist will help eliminate daily headaches.

Stress, overexcitation, depression, excitement, shock or excessive positive emotions, physical or mental overload also quite often result in a headache attack.

Moderate, regular exercise is beneficial for people with migraines. But you should start practicing with easy exercises, gradually increasing the level of difficulty. Otherwise, you can make things worse for yourself.

In addition, we must not forget that after playing sports, the level of water and glucose in the body decreases, the lack of which for migraine sufferers is fraught with another attack. To prevent this from happening, it is important to restore the reserves of moisture and glucose in the tissues as quickly as possible.

Headaches can also be caused by other factors.

• For example, the so-called migraine of football players is known, which is a consequence of mild regular damage to the skull.
• In people suffering from asthma or hay fever, an attack may occur due to allergies.
• A headache due to respiratory diseases in most cases is not yet a migraine, but an acute respiratory infection may well provoke an attack.
• An incorrect posture when working at a computer or driving a car causes tension in the neck muscles, which also has a good chance of developing into severe throbbing pain on one side of the head.
• Other migraine triggers include very bright flashing lights, smoking or staying in smoky, stuffy rooms, loud noises, and strong odors.

NATURAL CONDITIONS

Many people react to changing weather with a throbbing headache and weakness. For a long time, this kind of relationship seemed inexplicable.

Today, researchers know for sure: migraine attacks are a consequence of decreased atmospheric pressure. This natural phenomenon causes changes in the tone of blood vessels and the level of oxygen in the bloodstream, which results in headaches.

By the way, this also explains attacks during air travel.

In addition, American experts found confirmation that A migraine attack can be caused not only by changes in weather conditions, but also by changes in air temperature. In weather-sensitive patients, 50% of attacks occur precisely against the background of temperature changes.

The researchers discovered another interesting detail: Migraine sufferers react more painfully to cold weather than to hot weather. Scientists have recently found an explanation for this, and again - in genes. It turned out that the same sections of DNA are responsible for the predisposition to throbbing headaches and the reaction to cold. That is, if a person is cold, he feels pain more acutely.

Other weather factors that provoke attacks include high humidity, cloudiness and thunderstorms with lightning. But it is important to understand that not every migraine sufferer has increased weather sensitivity and does not necessarily react to all weather changes in the same way.

Therefore, it is useful for weather-sensitive people to keep a diary of their well-being and record their condition in different weather.

DREAM

The somnogenic factor plays a significant role in the development of migraine. Many people experience headache attacks due to lack of sleep or, conversely, too much sleep.

There is a saying that successful people get up at 5 am. Psychologists and time managers see advantages in waking up so early, but neuroscientists have a different opinion. They warn that waking up very early can lead to migraines.

But at the same time, experts also talk about the danger oversleeping, which can cause the so-called weekend migraine. It threatens people who are forced to get up very early during the week, and on weekends they get enough sleep “for the whole week.”

To avoid this, People with migraines need to follow a sleep schedule: On weekdays and weekends, get up and go to bed at the same time.

Travelers who often have to change time zones and, therefore, disrupt their usual sleep patterns are also at risk of catching a migraine.

IS THERE A MAIN FACTOR

In recent years, science has made major breakthroughs in research into the causes of migraines. For decades now, the etiology of the disease and forecasts for its development have remained under the close attention of scientists.

But even in our time, it is difficult for specialists to answer where migraines come from and what is the main factor that causes frequent headaches.

It is also still difficult to understand why a disease transmitted by inheritance can manifest itself in one child and not bother another at all, why a hormonal imbalance for some women is fraught with painful attacks, while others have no idea what migraine is.

There are still many questions to which scientists continue to seek answers. But one thing is clear: if a person experiences migraine attacks, he will have to reconsider his regimen and try to eliminate factors that official medicine lists as causes of headaches. published .

If you have any questions, please ask

P.S. And remember, just by changing your consumption, we are changing the world together! © econet

An epilepsy attack in humans is a sudden, rarely occurring, spontaneous convulsive seizure. Epilepsy is a brain pathology, the main symptom of which is convulsions. The described disease is considered a very common disorder that affects not only human subjects, but also animals. According to statistical monitoring, every twentieth person suffers a single epileptic attack. Five percent of the total population experienced a first seizure of epilepsy, followed by no further seizures. A convulsive attack can be caused by various factors, such as intoxication, high temperature, stress, alcohol, sleep deprivation, metabolic disorders, overwork, long-term computer games, prolonged viewing of TV shows.

Causes of epilepsy attacks

Until now, experts are struggling to find out the exact reasons that provoke the occurrence of epileptic seizures.

Epilepsy attacks can periodically occur in people who do not suffer from the disease in question. According to the evidence of most scientists, epileptic signs in humans appear only when a certain area of ​​the brain is damaged. Affected, but retaining some vitality, brain structures turn into sources of pathological discharges, which cause epileptic illness. Sometimes the consequence of an epileptic attack can be new brain damage, leading to the development of new foci of the pathology in question.

Scientists to this day do not know with absolute certainty what it is, why some patients suffer from its attacks, while others have no manifestations at all. They also cannot find an explanation for why seizures are an isolated event in some subjects, while in others they are a recurring symptom.

Some experts are convinced that epilepsy attacks are genetically determined. However, the development of the disease in question may be of a hereditary nature, as well as be a consequence of a number of diseases suffered by the epileptic, exposure to aggressive environmental factors and injuries.

Thus, among the causes that cause the occurrence of epileptic attacks, the following diseases can be identified: tumor processes in the brain, meningococcal infection and brain abscess, encephalitis, vascular disorders and inflammatory granulomas.

The causes of the occurrence of the pathology in question in early age or puberty are either impossible to establish, or they are genetically determined.

The older the patient, the more likely it is that epilepsy attacks develop against the background of severe brain damage. Often, convulsions can be caused by a feverish state. Approximately four percent of those who experience a severe febrile condition subsequently develop epilepsy.

The true cause of the development of this pathology is electrical impulses arising in the neurons of the brain, which cause conditions, the appearance of convulsions, and the individual performing actions that are unusual for him. The main cerebral areas of the brain do not have time to process electrical impulses sent in large quantities, especially those responsible for cognitive functions, as a result of which epilepsy arises.

The following are typical risk factors for epileptic seizures:

- birth injuries (for example, hypoxia) or premature birth and associated low birth weight of the newborn;

- thromboembolism;

- abnormalities of brain structures or cerebral vessels at birth;

- brain bleeding;

- cerebral palsy;

- presence of epilepsy in family members;

- abuse of alcoholic beverages or use of narcotic substances;

Symptoms of epilepsy attacks

The appearance of epileptic seizures depends on a combination of two factors: the activity of the epileptic (convulsive) focus and the general convulsive readiness of the brain.

An attack of epilepsy can often be preceded by an aura (“breeze” or “breath” translated from Greek). Its manifestations are quite varied and are determined by the localization of the brain area whose functioning is impaired. In other words, the manifestations of the aura depend on the location of the epileptic focus.

In addition, some conditions of the body can become “provocateurs” that cause an epileptic seizure. For example, an attack may occur due to the onset of menstruation. There are also seizures that occur only during dreams.

In addition to physiological conditions, epileptic seizures can be triggered by a number of external factors (for example, flickering light).

Seizures in epilepsy are characterized by a variety of manifestations, which depend on the location of the lesion, etiology (causes of occurrence), electroencephalographic indicators of the degree of maturity of the patient’s nervous system at the time of the attack.

There are many different classifications of seizures, which are based on the above and other characteristics. There are about thirty types of seizures. The international classification of epileptic seizures distinguishes two groups: partial seizures of epilepsy (focal seizures) and generalized convulsions (spread to all areas of the brain).

A generalized seizure of epilepsy is characterized by bilateral symmetry. At the time of occurrence, no focal manifestations are observed. This category of seizures includes: major and minor tonic-clonic seizures, absence seizures (short-term periods of loss), vegetative-visceral seizures and status epilepticus.

Tonic-clonic convulsions are accompanied by tension in the limbs and torso (tonic convulsions) and twitching (clonic convulsions). In this case, consciousness is lost. It is often possible to hold your breath for a short time without causing suffocation. Usually the seizure lasts no more than five minutes.

After an attack of epilepsy, the patient may fall asleep for a while, feel stunned, lethargic, and, less often, pain in the head.

A grand mal tonic-clonic seizure begins with a sudden loss of consciousness and is characterized by a short tonic phase with muscle tension in the trunk, face, and limbs. The epileptic falls as if knocked down; due to contraction of the muscles of the diaphragm and spasm of the glottis, a groan or cry occurs. The patient's face first becomes deathly pale, and then acquires a bluish tint, the jaws are tightly clenched, the head is thrown back, there is no breathing, the pupils are dilated, there is no reaction to light, the eyeballs are either turned up or to the side. The duration of this phase is usually no more than thirty seconds.

When the symptoms of a full-blown grand mal tonic-clonic seizure escalate, the tonic phase is followed by a clonic phase, lasting from one to three minutes. It begins with a convulsive sigh, followed by clonic convulsions that appear and gradually intensify. In this case, breathing is rapid, hyperemia replaces cyanosis of the facial skin, and there is no consciousness. During this phase, the patient may bite the tongue, involuntary urination and defecation.

An epileptic attack ends with muscle relaxation and deep sleep. In almost all cases, such attacks are noted.

After convulsions, weakness, headaches, decreased performance, muscle aches, mood and speech disturbances may occur for several hours. In some cases, confusion of consciousness, a state of stunned state, or, less often, twilight remains for a short time.

A grand mal seizure may have warning signs that herald the onset of a seizure. These include:

- malaise;

- change in mood;

- headache;

— somatovegetative disorders.

Usually, the precursors are characterized by stereotypicality and individuality, that is, each epileptic has his own precursors. In some cases, the type of attack in question may begin with an aura. It happens:

- auditory, for example, pseudohallucinations;

— vegetative, for example, vasomotor disorders;

- taste;

- visceral, for example, discomfort inside the body;

- visual (either in the form of simple visual sensations, or in the form of complex hallucinatory pictures);

- olfactory;

- psychosensory, for example, sensations of changes in the shape of one’s own body;

- mental, manifested in changes in mood, inexplicable;

- motor, characterized by convulsive oscillatory contractions of individual muscles.

Absences are short-term periods of loss of consciousness (lasting from one to thirty seconds). With minor absence seizures, the convulsive component is absent or weakly expressed. At the same time, they, as well as other epileptic paroxysms, are characterized by a sudden onset, a short duration of the attack (limited in time), a disorder of consciousness, and amnesia.

Absence seizures are considered the first sign of the development of epilepsy in children. Such short-term periods of loss of consciousness can occur several times a day, often reaching up to three hundred seizures. At the same time, they are practically invisible to others, since people often attribute such manifestations to a pensive state. This type of attack is not preceded by an aura. During a seizure, the patient’s movement stops abruptly, the gaze becomes lifeless and empty (as if freezing), and there is no response to the outside world. Sometimes there may be rolling of the eyes and a change in the color of the skin on the face. Following this kind of “pause”, the person continues moving as if nothing had happened.

Simple absence is characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness lasting a few seconds. At the same time, the person seems to freeze in one position with a frozen gaze. Sometimes rhythmic contractions of the eyeballs or twitching of the eyelids, vegetative-vascular dysfunction (dilated pupils, increased heart rate and breathing, pale skin) may be noted. At the end of the attack, the person continues the interrupted work or speech.

Complex absence seizure is characterized by changes in muscle tone, movement disorders with elements of automatism, and autonomic disorders (pallor or flushing of the face, urination, coughing).

Autonomic-visceral attacks are characterized by various vegetative-visceral disorders and vegetative-vascular dysfunction: nausea, pain in the peritoneum, heart, polyuria, changes in blood pressure, increased heart rate, vasovegetative disorders, hyperhidrosis. The end of the attack is as sudden as its debut. Malaise or stupor does not accompany an epileptic attack. Status epilepticus manifests itself as epileptic seizures following each other continuously and is characterized by a rapidly increasing coma with vital dysfunctions. Status epilepticus occurs as a result of irregular or inadequate treatment, abrupt withdrawal of long-term medications, intoxication, and acute somatic diseases. It can be focal (unilateral convulsions, often tonic-clonic) or generalized.

Focal or partial seizures of epilepsy are considered the most common manifestations of the pathology in question. They are caused by damage to neurons in a specific area of ​​one of the cerebral hemispheres. These seizures are divided into simple and complex partial convulsions, as well as secondary generalized seizures. During simple seizures, consciousness is not impaired. They manifest themselves as discomfort or twitching in certain areas of the body. Often simple partial convulsions are similar to an aura. Complex attacks are characterized by disturbance or changes in consciousness, as well as severe motor disturbances. They are caused by areas of overexcitation that are diverse in location. Often complex partial seizures can transform into generalized ones. This type of convulsions occurs in approximately sixty percent of people suffering from epilepsy.

A secondary generalized attack of epilepsy initially has the form of a convulsive or non-convulsive partial seizure or absence seizure, then a bilateral spread of convulsive motor activity develops.

First aid for an epileptic attack

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases today. It has been known since the time of Hippocrates. As we studied the symptoms, signs and manifestations of this “epileptic” disease, epilepsy became surrounded by many myths, prejudices and secrets. For example, until the seventies of the last century, British laws prevented people with epilepsy from getting married. Even today, many countries do not allow people with well-controlled epilepsy to choose certain professions or drive a car. Although there is no reason for such prohibitions.

Since epileptic seizures are not uncommon, every person needs to know what can help an epileptic during a sudden attack, and what will harm.

So, if a colleague or passerby has an epileptic attack, what should you do in this case, how can you help him avoid serious consequences? First of all, you need to stop panicking. It is necessary to understand that the health and further life of another person depends on the calmness and clarity of mind. In addition, it is necessary to note the time of the onset of the seizure.

First aid for an epilepsy attack includes the following actions. You should look around. If there are objects that can injure an epileptic during an attack, they should be removed at a sufficient distance. If possible, it is better not to move the person himself. It is recommended to put something soft under his head, for example, a cushion of clothing. You should also turn your head to the side. It is impossible to keep the patient motionless. The muscles of an epileptic are tense during a seizure, so holding the person’s body motionless by force can lead to injury. The patient's neck should be freed from items of clothing that may impede breathing.

Contrary to previously accepted recommendations and popular opinions on the topic “epilepsy attack, what to do,” you should not try to forcefully open a person’s jaws if they are clenched, since there is a risk of injury. Also, you should not try to insert hard objects into the patient’s mouth, as there is a possibility of causing harm by such actions, including breaking teeth. There is no need to try to force someone to drink. If an epileptic has fallen asleep after a seizure, then you should not wake him up.

During convulsions, it is necessary to constantly monitor the time, because if the seizure lasts more than five minutes, then you should call an ambulance, since prolonged attacks can lead to irreversible consequences.

The person should not be left alone until his condition improves to normal.

All actions aimed at providing assistance during epileptic seizures must be quick, clear, without unnecessary fuss and sudden movements. It is necessary to be nearby throughout the entire epilepsy attack.

After an attack of epilepsy, you should try to turn the patient on his side to avoid the weakened tongue from sinking. For the psychological comfort of a person who has suffered a seizure, it is recommended to clear the room of outside observers and “onlookers.” Only those persons who are able to provide real assistance to the victim should remain in the room. After an attack of epilepsy, minor twitching of the torso or limbs may be observed, so if a person tries to stand up, he needs to be helped and held while walking. If a seizure occurs in an epileptic area of ​​increased danger, for example, on a steep river bank, then it is better to convince the patient to maintain a supine position until the twitching completely stops and consciousness returns.

To achieve normalization of consciousness, it usually takes no more than fifteen minutes. Upon returning consciousness, the epileptic can decide for himself whether he needs to be hospitalized. Most patients have thoroughly studied the features of their condition and disease and know what they need to do. You should not try to feed a person medicinal drugs. If this is the first attack of epilepsy, then a thorough diagnosis, laboratory tests and a medical opinion are necessary, and if it is a repeated attack, then the person himself is well aware of what medications to take.

There are a number of precursors that signal the imminent onset of an attack:

- increased human;

- change in habitual behavior, for example, excessive activity or excessive sleepiness;

- dilated pupils;

- short-term, self-limiting muscle twitches;

- lack of response to others;

- tearfulness and anxiety are rarely possible.

Providing incorrect or untimely assistance during a seizure is quite dangerous for an epileptic. The following dangerous consequences are possible: entry of food, blood, saliva into the respiratory canals, due to difficulty breathing - hypoxia, impaired brain function, with prolonged epilepsy - coma, and death is also possible.

Treatment of epilepsy attacks

A lasting therapeutic effect in the treatment of the pathology in question is achieved mainly through medication. The following basic principles of adequate treatment of epileptic seizures can be distinguished: an individual approach, differentiated selection of pharmacopoeial agents and their doses, duration and continuity of therapy, complexity and continuity.

Treatment of this disease is carried out for at least four years; discontinuation of medications is practiced only when the electroencephalogram parameters are normalized.

For the treatment of epilepsy, it is recommended to prescribe medications with different spectrum of action. In this case, it is necessary to take into account certain etiological factors, pathogenetic data and clinical indicators. It is mainly practiced to prescribe such groups of drugs as corticosteroids, neuroleptics, antiepileptic drugs, antibiotics, substances with dehydrating, anti-inflammatory and absorbable effects.

Among anticonvulsants, derivatives of barbituric acid (for example, Phenobarbital), valproic acid (Depakine), and hydantoic acid (Difenin) are successfully used.

Treatment of epilepsy attacks must begin with the selection of the most effective and well-tolerated drug. The construction of a treatment regimen should be based on the nature of the clinical symptoms and manifestations of the disease. For example, for generalized tonic-clonic convulsions, the use of Phenobarbital, Hexamidine, Diphenin, Clonazepam is indicated, and for myoclonic convulsions - Hexamidine, valproic acid preparations.

Treatment of an epileptic attack should be carried out in three stages. In this case, the first stage involves the selection of drugs that will meet the required therapeutic effectiveness and will be well tolerated by the patient.

At the beginning of treatment, it is necessary to adhere to the principles of monotherapy. In other words, one drug should be prescribed in a minimum dosage. As the pathology develops, combinations of drugs are prescribed. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the mutually potentiating effect of the prescribed drugs. The result of the first stage is the achievement of remission.

At the next stage, therapeutic remission must be deepened through the systematic use of one or a combination of drugs. The duration of this stage is at least three years under the control of electroencephalography indicators.

The third stage is to reduce the doses of drugs, subject to normalization of electroencephalography data and the presence of stable remission. The drugs are gradually withdrawn over ten to twelve years.

If negative dynamics appear on the electroencephalogram, the dosage should be increased.

The information presented in this article is intended for informational purposes only and cannot replace professional advice and qualified medical care. If you have the slightest suspicion that you have this disease, be sure to consult your doctor!

Epilepsy is a disease characterized by seizures that are caused by increased activity in a certain area of ​​the brain. The manifestation of the disease is observed as short-term attacks lasting 5 minutes.

The disease occurs not only in humans, but also in cats and dogs.

Contents [Show]

Manifestation of the disease

• Seizures manifest themselves in the form of exacerbation, characterized by loss of consciousness or convulsions.
• Some people experience minor outbursts. They experience a blackout, they do not delve into what is happening, they do not faint. A person does not remain in this state for long; as a rule, there are no consequences.
• Minor seizures can last a long time: the patient does not faint, for several minutes he can unconsciously walk around the room, perform meaningless actions, unconsciously tug and wrinkle clothes. Upon regaining consciousness, severe dizziness is observed.

The examinations carried out showed that the occurrence of an exacerbation occurs from a surge of nerve cells located in the brain, which, with increased excitability, cause epileptic seizures.

This can happen for many reasons:

• Lack of sleep– a sick person needs to sleep more. If there are problems associated with insomnia, then evening walks and taking sedatives: valerian, valocordin, peony tincture are recommended.
• Dietary restrictions– it is necessary to reduce fluid intake, because it provokes a surge in the disease; refusal of salty foods, which subsequently causes the consumption of large volumes of drink. In such cases, fluid is retained in the body and causes swelling, including swelling of the brain tissue. This causes intracranial pressure to rise and another attack occurs.
• Overheating in the sun may cause another surge, so it is better not to risk it and not sunbathe.
• Visiting discos, where there is bright light music, loud sounds will also provoke a burst of attack. Light reflections, car headlights, and flickering lights are also contraindicated.
• Alcohol intake Strictly prohibited for sick people. For this reason, doctors advise taking herbal decoctions for treatment, and diluting alcohol tinctures with water.

An attack can occur from overexcitation, nervousness, overwork, or stress.

Anyone can become an accidental witness to an attack. This can happen on the street, in a store, or at home. Everyone should know what kind of help to provide to a patient.

• If a person is unconscious, place a soft object under the head and remove dangerous objects to prevent injury.
• Do not forcefully hold the cramp and monitor your breathing.
• To prevent the patient from having a bite or recessed tongue, place a handkerchief in the mouth.
• Turn him on his side to prevent him from choking on saliva or vomit.
• During an attack, the patient may stop breathing or involuntarily urinate. In this case, you need to treat this problem with understanding.

You need to know in what cases it is necessary to call emergency doctors:

• The unconscious state lasts more than 5 minutes.
• The seizures do not end, but follow each other.
• The patient has injuries.
• The occurrence of seizures in pregnant women.
• After the end of the attack, the patient does not come to his senses. The seizure is observed for the first time.

How to prevent

Bursts of attacks can occur from lack of sleep or being in a stressful situation.

• For these reasons, patients should follow a regimen, get more rest and engage in simple exercises to relieve tension.
• Always take prescribed medications, do not skip doses or change the dose at will.
• Categorically refuse to drink alcohol, because it may disrupt sleep and change the effects of medications.

The majority of patients have signs that precede the onset of an attack. This is indicated by the area of ​​the brain where the seizure focus has formed.

It could be:

• Increased body temperature.
• Audibility of various sounds.
• Dizziness.
• Sensation of foreign smell or taste.
• Change in visual perception.

You can change the attack that occurs by doing the opposite. For example, if an unfamiliar taste appears in your mouth, you can give it a sniff. ammonia. This will sharply interrupt the sense of taste and bring the patient to his senses. If involuntary movements of the patient’s limbs occur, take the opposite action.

Change the emerging attack by creating a sensation of pain or another action that is stronger than the original sensation. This can be pinching, patting, fast walking, etc. If a patient has a seizure in a state of sadness or blues, it is necessary to use all possible efforts to bring him out of this.

It is necessary to treat patients suffering from this disease with deep understanding and help them in every possible way. It is necessary to find out from him how to behave when an attack occurs, how to help, and, if possible, carry out his instructions and requests.

• What is epilepsy? Her reasons.
• How to prevent an epileptic seizure.
• Sedatives during an attack.
• Epilepsy treatment strategy.
• Treatment of epilepsy in children.
• REVIEWS

From a conversation with Doctor of Medical Sciences V. A. Karlov.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy– a brain disease accompanied by epileptic seizures, many consider it incurable. However, this statement is refuted in this article by DMN Vladimir Alekseevich Karlov.

How to avoid epileptic seizures - how to prevent an epileptic seizure.

Epilepsy attacks are often provoked by its “companions”. If brain cells are highly excited, then excessive bioelectrical activity begins in them, which causes epileptic seizures. Convulsive seizures are considered the most severe - depending on which area of ​​the brain the bioelectric discharge occurs, muscle tension is replaced by convulsions, the patient’s face turns pale and acquires a bluish tint.
Excitation of brain cells, and, consequently, an attack of epilepsy, can be caused by the following reasons:

• overwork,
• overexcitement,
• stress,
• lack of sleep,
• alcohol.

To avoid an epileptic attack, you need to follow a few simple rules.

• For someone with epilepsy, getting a good night's sleep is essential medicine. Lack of sleep may provoke epileptic attacks. Therefore, if a patient has problems sleeping, he needs walks in the fresh air before bedtime. If they do not help, then take sedatives at night: valerian, valocordin, peony tincture.
• Discos with loud music, flickering lights and crowds are contraindicated for patients.
  In some forms of epilepsy, light therapy is also contraindicated. glare: glare on the waves, flashes, headlights, flashing lights outside the window of a car or train. Special glasses can protect against these causes of epileptic seizures to some extent.
• Overheating in the sun is also undesirable; to prevent an epileptic attack, it is better to refuse the temptation to sunbathe.
• Sitting in front of a monitor or TV for many hours should also be avoided.
  Eat restrictions in physical education. Contraindicated: boxing, mountaineering, swimming. Shown: walking, gymnastics, weightlifting.
• Diet restrictions: To avoid an epileptic seizure, you should reduce your fluid intake. Consumption of spicy and salty foods increases the need for fluid, fluid retention occurs in the body, and swelling of the brain tissue also develops, causing intracranial pressure to increase and another seizure to occur.
• Alcohol– the biggest enemy of a patient with epilepsy. Therefore, doctors recommend using herbal decoctions for treatment, and alcohol tinctures must be diluted with water.

Herbs for epilepsy - sedatives during an attack.

• The sedative works very well Novo-passit, made from plant materials: extracts of lemon balm, hawthorn, valerian, elderberry, passionflower, hops + auxiliary substance guaifenesin, which relieves feelings of tension and fear. This drug is taken 3 times a day, 1 tablet.
• Shoot extract passion flowers can be taken separately, 20-40 drops 3 times a day. Course – 20-30 days. This extract has a calming effect on the central nervous system in epilepsy.
• Collections of medicinal herbs provide a gentle and multifaceted effect on the patient’s body. They are usually made up of 6-8 plants, which include: calamus, yarrow, tansy, viburnum, St. John's wort, elecampane, licorice, mint, cyanosis, plantain, lemon balm. All these herbs are crushed and mixed. To prepare the infusion, 1-2 tbsp. l. collection, pour 1 glass of water, keep in a water bath for 15 minutes, take 1/3 glass 3 times a day. Course – 4-6 months.
• Infusion of valerian roots has a sedative effect. 1 tbsp. l. crushed roots, pour 1 glass of cold boiled water, leave for 6-8 hours. Drink 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day (children 1 tsp). The course of treatment with valerian is 1.5-2 months. In addition, take baths with a decoction of valerian roots before bed.
• Motherwort Helps avoid epilepsy attacks: 2 tsp. herbs are poured into 500 ml of boiling water and left for 2 hours. Drink 1-2 tbsp. l. before meals 4 times a day.
• Peony root infusion evader (maryin root) will help relieve excessive nervous excitability in patients with epilepsy and improve sleep. 1 tsp. roots, pour 1 cup of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes in a sealed container. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals. If you cannot get this plant, you can use a pharmacy peony tincture (30 drops 3 times a day, course – 1 month), diluting it with water. As a last resort, you can make a tincture of decorative peony: take 100 g of fresh leaves and petals and pour 200 ml of alcohol, leave for 2 weeks, take 15 drops three times a day, half an hour before meals.
• Rhizomes of Skullcap Baikal(crowberry nigra) are used in Siberia and the Far East in powder form as an anticonvulsant against epileptic attacks. A single dose is 3-10 g. The ground part of the skullcap is also used. 20 g of twigs collected during flowering are infused in a glass of boiling water for 1 hour, drink 1/3 glass 3 times a day before meals.
• Chernobyl roots, collected during flowering also have an anticonvulsant effect. 30 g is poured into 500 ml of beer, boiled for 5 minutes. Drink until the sweat stops.
• Collection of herbs for epilepsy.
  This herbal infusion reduces the severity of epileptic seizures and convulsive readiness. To prepare a medicinal mixture, take 5-6 names of the following antiepileptic herbs: dream, valerian, oregano, lemon balm, cyanosis, hawthorn, hops, sage, calendula and add 10-20% nettle to this mixture. For the treatment of epilepsy in adults, take 1 tbsp. l. collection and pour 400 ml of boiling water, simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes. Infuse for 1 hour and filter. Add 1-2 tbsp to the decoction. l. motherwort juice, mistletoe, celandine, rapeseed, calendula - to choose from.
  Take 100-150 ml 3-4 times a day. The course of treatment is 2-3 or more months. Antiepileptic drugs are not canceled until the doctor allows it. (recipe from Healthy Lifestyle 2007, No. 8, p. 29).

Epilepsy treatment strategy.

• Treatment of epilepsy with herbs can achieve improvement. For most patients, epilepsy does not interfere with normal life and work. But it is possible to say that epilepsy has been completely cured only in cases where there have been no epileptic attacks for 3-4 years, and whose electroencephalogram confirms the absence of epileptoid brain activity.
• Successful treatment of epilepsy is possible only if the efforts of the doctor, the patient and his relatives are combined in a friendly manner. Everyone has their own role. Doctor determines the selection of medications. A universal cure for epileptic seizures has not yet been found. Effective drug combinations are real. But it requires careful selection.
• Modern medicine can greatly reduce and even completely stop epilepsy attacks. Currently, about 20 types of drugs against epilepsy are used. But first, the doctor prescribes one of the basic ones (finlepsin, valproate, tegritol, depakine).
• Anticonvulsants often have side effects: drowsiness, rash. But sick He should not cancel his own treatment on this basis; he must strictly follow all the doctor’s instructions. Treatment should be continuous and long-term. Otherwise, exacerbations of the disease are possible; attacks may begin to repeat one after another, or be very protracted, sometimes with a fatal outcome.
  To remember to take your medications, it is recommended to prepare them in the evening and set an alarm for a certain time.

Help from loved ones the patient is also an important component of successful treatment. They must show complicity so that the patient with epilepsy does not feel isolated and inferior.

Help with an epileptic attack.

In everyday life, you need to know how to provide first aid during an epileptic attack. If the patient has lost consciousness during an epileptic seizure, there is no need to restrain him or transfer him to another place. To avoid injury, simply place something soft under his head and unbutton his clothes if they restrict breathing. Do not try to open your jaws to pour water or put a pill into your mouth.

What to do after an epileptic seizure

Often, after an attack of epilepsy, the patient is in a vague state, trying to go somewhere, do something, this state lasts 15-20 minutes. We need to help the patient move onto the bed and wait until he calms down. Sit next to him without trying to talk to the patient.
If an epileptic attack lasts more than 5 minutes, or is repeated over and over again, then medical help is required.
(recipe from the newspaper “Vestnik ZOZH” 2008, No. 12 p. 28,).

Water limitation.
At the age of 23, the woman began having epileptic seizures. This continued for 7 years until she was advised to limit her fluid intake. The patient sharply reduced the amount of fluid she drank, and the epileptic seizures disappeared.
At the age of 33, she gave birth, and in order to improve lactation, she began to drink a lot of milk. The attacks returned. She again switched to water restrictions, and there were no more attacks. She is now 69 years old. (recipe from Healthy Lifestyle 2000, No. 5 p. 13).

How to treat epilepsy in children?

How to treat this disease in adults is described in detail in the article: "TREATMENT OF EPILEPSY IN ADULTS"

Folk remedies for epilepsy:

1. Give your child as many raw onions as possible. Drink onion juice before each meal - 1 tsp.
2. Drink valerian tincture with water 3 times a day. When treating epilepsy in children, give as many drops of valerian as the child is old.
3. Infusion of the roots of valerian, chicory, cyanosis, angelica, Chernobyl, evasive peony: take 1 type of crushed root, 1 tsp, pour 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour in a tightly sealed container. Drink 3-5 times a day, 1 tbsp. l. before meals.
4. For epilepsy in children, bathe them in a decoction of forest hay.
5. Infusion from a collection of herbs. In the form of a decoction you can use: motherwort, wormwood, thyme, cucumber, jasmine, lemon balm, woodruff, wild rosemary, oregano, violet, tansy, dill, cinquefoil, knotweed, horsetail, linden blossom, mistletoe, arnica, beech. Make a collection of 7-10 herbs and make decoctions according to the following scheme: 2 tbsp. l. pour 2 cups of boiling water over the collection, insulate, and let it brew. Drink half a glass 3 times a day 10-15 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is from one month to three, depending on the severity of the condition. (HLS 2001, No. 8, p. 16).

Epilepsy in a child - a simple folk method.
A very strange method of treating epilepsy in children, but it has helped many. The method is easy and will not cause harm.
The hair on the child’s head must be cut in four places crosswise, and the child’s nails on all fingers and toes must be trimmed. Wrap everything in a piece of bandage. Place the child near the door frame and note his growth. In place of this mark, drill a hole and put a bandage with hair and nails into it, and putty on the jamb. When the patient outgrows this mark, the child’s epilepsy attacks will go away. (HLS 2000, No. 14, p. 13).

Let’s look at the best folk recipes for treating epilepsy in a child based on materials from the newspaper “Herald Healthy Lifestyle”...

• Apricot grains for epilepsy.
  Eat as many peeled apricot kernels every morning as the patient is old. For example, 8 years - 8 cores in the morning on an empty stomach every day for a month. Then a break for 1 month. Repeat the course until you are cured, it depends on the degree of the disease. The reader managed to cure her granddaughter of epilepsy with apricot kernels in six months, i.e. she took 3 courses of 1 month each. Then she was 8 years old, now she is 23 years old - there have been no attacks during this time. (recipe from Healthy Lifestyle 2010, No. 21, p. 33).
• Treatment of epilepsy in a child with golden root at home.
  A woman cured her granddaughter with Rhodiola rosea tincture and soothing herbs.
  25 g of dry root should be poured with 500 ml of vodka, left for 2-3 weeks in a dark place, shaking.
  Add as many drops into 1/3 glass of water as the child is old. Adults – no more than 25 drops (starting from ten, adding a drop every day). Drink 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. The last dose of the tincture is no later than 18 hours.
  The course of treatment with this folk remedy is 10 days. The break is also 10 days, during these ten days of the break take soothing herbs: oregano, mint, lemon balm, valerian root, sweet clover. 1 tbsp. l. pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herbal collection, leave, drink 1/3 cup 3 times. Conduct 4 such courses (i.e. 40 days), then a month break
  During treatment, the infusion of golden root was not used to prevent an overdose. Within a year, the child’s epilepsy was completely cured. (Healthy Lifestyle 2007, No. 4, p. 10, 2006 No. 18.), (recipe from the newspaper Bulletin of Healthy Lifestyle 2006, No. 17, p. 29).
• How to treat epilepsy in a child by collecting herbs.
  The girl fell ill at the age of 3. Relatives could not cope with this disease for four years, until one woman suggested to her parents a herbal recipe that helped her herself cure epilepsy, which she had suffered from for 22 years.
  Blue cyanosis herb, herb comb grass (another name is Ivan-da marya), St. John's wort, oregano, hawthorn bark, Bogorodskaya grass - take all the herbs equally and mix thoroughly. 1 tbsp. l. Brew the mixture with 200 ml of boiling water, let it brew in a thermos and drink according to? glasses 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. The treatment is long-term. The girl drank this infusion for a whole year, although her attacks stopped after a month.
  The reader gave this recipe to her friend for her adult son. He had attacks every hour, day and night. After treatment, their number decreased significantly. (HLS 2007, No. 14, p. 8).
• Treatment of epilepsy in children with marina root (wild peony) at home.
  Dig up the marina root, rinse, but do not scrape. Cut 50 g of root into thin slices, pour in 0.5 liters of vodka, let stand for 21 days, do not strain. Take with water (50 ml). Children under 15 years of age take as many drops as they are old; adults take 25 drops 3 times a day. Taking the tincture does not depend on food intake. (recipe from Healthy Lifestyle 2004, No. 2, p. 27).
• Belarusian folk remedy.
  A pig has two small bones in its head (one on each side), they look like a human skull. When you cook jellied meat, these bones do not boil or even soften. They must be crushed into powder, wrapped in cloth and smashed with a hammer. This powder is 1/4 tsp. should be added to food 1-2 times a day. Epilepsy attacks in children stop. (recipe from the newspaper Vestnik ZOZH 2001, No. 5 p. 19)

Descriptions of epilepsy or “falling” disease are found in works dating back to BC. The nature of the pathology was poorly understood at that time, but today, thanks to modern research methods, experts know: the disease is caused by increased neuronal activity.

It is formed in the epileptic focus, from which the discharge can spread to both hemispheres of the brain. Male epileptics do not serve in the army, receiving a “white ticket” at the military registration and enlistment office.

Stress, drinking alcohol in any quantity, lack of sleep, and much more can provoke a sharp increase in the activity of nerve cells and cause a seizure. The patient needs to learn how to prevent steam crises, and his family needs to understand the algorithm of actions during a crisis.

Manifestation of the disease

“Epileptic” disease manifests itself in specific seizures. How and what can cause an attack of epilepsy is completely unknown to modern science. Some of them last no more than a few seconds, others last for minutes. A person does not always fall and convulse.

In a mild form, the patient makes incomprehensible, repetitive movements - automatisms: fiddling with objects, walking, and can even drive a car. But after that, as a rule, he doesn’t remember anything.

The description of an epileptic attack begins with an aura. These are the emotional and physical sensations that a patient experiences before a seizure. This condition lasts from several hours to one or two days:

• drowsiness or increased activity;
• headaches;
• tingling in various parts of the body;
• with some types of parocrisis, auditory or visual hallucinations;
• irritability, tearfulness;
• short-term muscle contractions.
• The man then slumps to the floor, letting out a soft cry. At this moment, the epileptic is unconscious and does not understand what is happening to him and around him.

The tonic phase begins:

• muscles are very tense;
• breathing is labored and labored, causing the lips to turn blue;
• the patient may bite his cheek or tongue;
• sometimes urination or bowel movements occur;
• increased salivation (foaming at the mouth), and in rare cases, vomiting.

The seizure ends with the clonic phase. Here the limbs seem to twitch: the muscles either tense or relax.

What can cause seizures?

Since we have found out that parocrisis is a manifestation of an illness, it is worth deciding: what can cause epilepsy? There are several main reasons that in medicine are considered to be provoking circumstances for the development of a deviation:

• hereditary predisposition - this form is called idiopathic (congenital). Due to pathology in genes, a person is actually born with epilepsy acquired from immediate family members;
• due to the influence of external factors: head injury, neoplasms, cerebrovascular diseases, neuroinfections - here we talk about the symptomatic type;
• for unknown reasons - this species is called cryptogenic.

Modern medicine does not know the answer to the question: how to prevent epilepsy. Often, increased activity of neurons in the cerebral cortex begins without apparent reason. In this case, doctors no longer have to fight the disease itself, but try to minimize the negative consequences for the nervous system from constant seizures.

What can trigger an epileptic attack? Doctors cannot yet determine exactly what exactly causes a seizure. But there are the most common factors:

• abrupt, violent awakening;
• stress, for example, quarrels with a loved one or troubles at work;
• bright light. Of course, this does not mean that you should avoid the sun and not go outside during daylight hours. It is enough to wear dark glasses;
• the child has a high temperature. Parents should monitor the baby’s condition and prevent hyperemia;
• alcoholic binge, hangover;

Another condition that provokes frequent seizures is the patient’s diet. The diet must be correct. The basis of the diet is plant and dairy products. It is not recommended to completely exclude fish and meat dishes, although in order to prevent a new attack, it is better to significantly reduce their quantity and volume. You definitely need to give up pickles and smoked foods. Such simple restrictions will help avoid steam crises.

Providing first emergency aid

Due to the fact that, according to statistics, epilepsy is the most common neurological disease, an ordinary and healthy person may well accidentally encounter its manifestations, namely an epileptic seizure. Even if there are no people in the family suffering from epilepsy, it is better to have an idea of ​​what to do in such cases:

1. Don't panic or get nervous. There is no need to be afraid of a seizure in order to really help the epileptic and not harm him.
2. Note the time of the onset of the steam crisis. There is no way to try to stop the attack. If convulsions continue for more than five minutes, then it is necessary to call an ambulance. The caller must explain to the operator how long the seizure is and describe the symptoms.
3. If possible, do not move the patient. Remove objects that could cause harm from him. Move the furniture.
4. If a person falls and has convulsions, then you need to put something soft under his head, for example, clothes. At the same time, turn your head to the side so that the epileptic does not choke on saliva. Attempts to insert a hard object into the patient's mouth between the jaws can lead to broken teeth.
5. Remove the patient's neck from clothing.
6. You should not hold a person’s legs or arms, as this increases the risk of injury. After all, during a seizure, the muscles are under severe tension. For the same reason, there is no need to unclench the jaws of an epileptic with all your might.
7. You can't try to force someone to drink.
8. Often after the seizure ends the patient falls asleep. In this case, there is no need to wake him up.

The main thing is not to leave the epileptic alone throughout the parocrisis and for some time after. It is better to try to “remove” overly curious “onlookers” from the room. Their presence usually greatly confuses those suffering from epilepsy. People who have little idea what epilepsy is can only do harm with their curiosity.

How to prevent

How to avoid an epilepsy attack? Perhaps this is the main question for epileptics. After all, it is seizures that do not allow them to live a full life. The goal of drug therapy is to prevent new parocrises. Often, drugs can achieve stable remission, which lasts for several years.

In addition to taking anticonvulsants - medications aimed at treating epilepsy, the patient is able to help himself:

• To prevent the onset of steam crisis, it is recommended to have lavender oil on hand. Inhale its aroma when a person feels the warning signs of an attack (aura). This method is suitable only for an adult, since a child, due to his age, is unable to rationally assess his illness;
• relax more, don’t be nervous;
• find something you like that will distract and occupy you;
• get enough sleep: healthy and adequate sleep is very important;
• do not drink alcohol: alcohol affects the effect of anticonvulsants and disrupts the functioning of the nervous system, thereby causing new seizures;
• light physical activity relieves stress;
• take medications regularly and according to the schedule prescribed by your doctor;
• It is recommended to use folk remedies: drink decoctions of motherwort or valerian.

What to do after an attack

We have already found out how to prevent an epileptic attack. Now you need to understand what happens after it ends. When the steam crisis is over, a person cannot be left alone. He needs to be helped to stand up and sit down.

Patients experience weakness and drowsiness. Consciousness returns after fifteen minutes. Until this moment, there is no need to try to force the patient to take the medicine, it is dangerous. Often the epileptic himself understands: what exactly needs to be done and whether there is a need for medical help.

Contrary to the established stereotype: epilepsy is not a death sentence. There is a way out. Many people who suffer from it, thanks to proper treatment, get rid of parocrises for many years. Anyone who has been diagnosed with this disease knows what can cause an epileptic attack and takes the necessary measures to prevent it.

Among diseases of the nervous system, epilepsy is considered the most unpleasant, as a person loses consciousness and has convulsions. In such a situation, it is advisable for relatives to be nearby, because the patient can choke on his tongue or hit himself painfully when falling to the floor. The disease manifests itself at any age, for example, in children due to hypoxia (oxygen starvation) or infection, and in older age due to head trauma. In people over 50, this problem arises due to pathologies of the cardiovascular system or degenerative diseases of the central nervous system such as Parkinson's disease.

It is difficult to predict how long an epileptic attack will last, but usually its duration varies from 5-10 seconds to 10 minutes. After it, the patient experiences a memory loss and is unable to remember recent events. After 1-2 hours, the epileptic’s condition stabilizes, and he does not understand what kind of seizure he is talking about. According to doctors, it is easier to prevent an epileptic attack, since it cannot be stopped and close people can only help the epileptic so that he does not injure himself.

Methods to prevent an epileptic attack

An overexcited central nervous system (CNS) against the background of concomitant diseases provokes epileptic seizures, which can be prevented by knowing their causes, such as:

• Mental and physical overload;
• Stressful situations;
• Insomnia;
• Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
• Overexcitation of the central nervous system.

Healthy and sound sleep is needed by all people, and especially by epileptics, since for them it is as important as insulin injections and diet for diabetics. Doctors have long proven that insomnia causes epileptic seizures to occur more often. This is why lack of sleep is considered the main cause of the problem. You can understand how many hours of sleep the norm is based on these data:

• School-age children 8-10 hours;
• Adults 8 hours;
• For older people 6-7 hours.

In case of epilepsy, another 1-2 hours are added to this time so that the nervous system can rest for a sufficient amount of time.

If you can’t fall asleep, then experts advise walking outside for 15-20 minutes before going to bed, as fresh air has a beneficial effect on this process.

Sometimes this method does not work, especially against the backdrop of internal experiences. In this case, doctors prescribe sedatives (calming) drugs, for example, tincture of valerian, hawthorn or peony.

Young people suffering from this disease should remember that glare in front of the eyes can cause a seizure. It is possible to avoid an attack of epilepsy in such a situation, but you must avoid discos and other places where the lights flicker. Sometimes even headlights provoke the development of the disease. Thick curtains in the room and special anti-glare glasses can cope with this.

Loud music is prohibited, as it provokes an attack of epilepsy and can be avoided by completely abandoning it. Instead, epileptics are recommended to listen to relaxing melodies that help calm the nervous system. You can add nature sounds and classical music to this list.

Epileptics should make sure that the sun does not heat their heads, especially in summer, when the intensity of the sun's rays is highest. To do this, wear hats, which are sold in all clothing stores. You also need to sunbathe in moderation, that is, either very early in the morning or in the evening, when the sun is not so hot, or it is better to avoid it altogether.

Stressing your eyes and head while sitting at a computer is also prohibited for sick people. It is recommended to take breaks every hour for 5-10 minutes. At this time, you can walk down the street or do light exercises.

Sports have their limitations, as wrestling, swimming, and mountaineering are prohibited. Because of them, an epileptic can suffer a head injury or overstrain the central nervous system. Doctors advise turning your attention to other sports such as weightlifting, walking and gymnastics.

You can prevent an epileptic attack by combining all these tips with proper nutrition. First, you need to reduce the volume of liquid you consume (no more than 1.5-2 liters), since its excess can cause a seizure. Food should be healthy and nutritious, and most importantly, you need to reduce the amount of salty and spicy foods, as water retention occurs in the body. Because of this, the brain tissue swells, the pressure rises sharply and an attack begins.

Experts strongly recommend completely eliminating alcoholic drinks from your life. They are considered the main provocateur of epilepsy attacks, and by removing alcohol they can be prevented, since the main irritating factor will be eliminated. If tinctures made with alcohol are taken for treatment, they must be well diluted with ordinary boiled water.

Herbs for epileptic seizures

Doctors advise epileptics to drink herbal decoctions with a diuretic effect in order to get rid of excess fluid, and plants with a calming effect on the nervous system will also help. Herbal medicine and traditional methods of treatment are a salvation for many older people and thanks to them, attacks occur much less frequently.

According to epileptics, the drug Novo-Passit is good at preventing seizures. It is created from natural ingredients:

• Hops;
• Valerian;
• Melissa;
• Passion flowers;
• Hawthorn.

Separately, you can highlight an auxiliary component called guaifenesin. It serves to remove anxious feelings. You must take the drug at least 3 times a day.

Other plants, such as passionflower, can also calm the central nervous system. Preparations created on the basis of its shoots must be taken at least 3 times a day, 30 drops each. The duration of the course is usually not particularly limited, but after a month of taking it, it is recommended to take a break for 2-3 weeks, and then it can be repeated.

Many pharmacies sell special herbal medicines. Their effect is quite mild and seizures occur much less frequently after taking this drug. The collection includes the following herbs:

• Cyanosis;
• Elecampane;
• Kalina;
• Melissa;
• Licorice;
• Plantain;
• Yarrow.

Each of the listed herbs gives its own unique effect, and their combination brings many benefits in the treatment of pathological processes in the central nervous system. To prepare it you need to take 1 tbsp. l. collection and pour a glass of boiling water into it, then close it with a lid and let it brew until it cools completely. You should consume 50-70 ml at a time 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is six months.

The calming effect of valerian has long been known and it is perfect for preventing epileptic seizures. To do this, you need to take the dry roots of this plant and grind them well. The resulting mixture should be poured into a container with plain water in a ratio of 1 tbsp. l. per 250 ml of liquid, and then the broth should be allowed to brew for 10 hours. The finished drink should be consumed 1 tbsp. l. at least 3 times a day. For children under 18 years of age, it is better to reduce the dose to 1 tsp. The duration of taking this drug is 2 months.

Motherwort will be no less useful in order to avoid an attack and it does this due to its sedative properties. To prepare, you need to take 1 tbsp. l. dried and ground plant and pour it into a half-liter container with boiling water. Then the broth should be allowed to brew for 2-3 hours. You can use the finished product 2 tbsp. l. before each meal for 2 months.

Maryin root (evasive peony) helps relieve symptoms of nervousness in epileptics and improve sleep. Preparing the decoction is quite simple and for this you need to take 1 tsp. ground and dried plant roots and pour 250 ml of boiling water over them. The container with the broth should be closed and allowed to brew for an hour. It is allowed to consume the finished product before meals, 1 tbsp. l, and the course duration is 30 days. Sometimes difficulties arise in getting this plant and in such a situation you can buy a ready-made tincture at the pharmacy.

Due to the fact that epileptics are prohibited from drinking alcohol, it will need to be diluted with water in a ratio of 30 drops to 1/3 glass of water (50-70 ml). You will also need to drink it, namely before meals for 30 days. If there is no way to buy a ready-made product, then you can make a tincture from decorative peony. To do this you need to pick 100 grams. leaves and petals, and then pour 250 ml of alcohol into them. This remedy will have to be infused for 10-14 days, preferably in a dark place. You can use the finished tincture in the same way as one purchased at a pharmacy.

Doctors also recommend using anticonvulsants, for example, the rhizomes of Scutellaria Baikal. This remedy is very popular in Siberia, since epilepsy attacks actually do not occur due to it. The upper part of the plant is used for decoction during flowering. Anyone can prepare it, but to do this you need to pick 20 grams. Scutellaria shoots, and then they need to be poured into a glass of boiling water. In an hour, the product will be ready and you need to drink 50-70 ml before meals. If you don’t want or have the opportunity to cook, you can buy a pharmaceutical version in powder form and usually a single dose before meals is from 5 to 10 g.

You can reduce the frequency of seizures and, accordingly, epileptic seizures with the help of Chernobyl roots (artemisia vulgare). To prepare, you need to mix half a liter of beer and 30 g of crushed plant, and then the resulting mixture must be boiled for 5 minutes. You need to drink it before meals, 50 ml.

Treatment of epilepsy with the help of a doctor

Epilepsy attacks can only be overcome through the joint efforts of the epileptic’s loved ones, the attending physician and the patient himself. The role of the physician in this triangle is to monitor the development of the disease and competently select a course of therapy. Despite the lack of a panacea for epilepsy, you can completely get rid of its seizures and maintain the resulting stability thanks to a healthy lifestyle and following the advice of a specialist.

Today there are more than 15-20 drugs for the treatment of this pathology. Initially, the doctor will choose a basic drug like Depakine or Finlepsin. After the appointment, the specialist will need to monitor the results of the treatment in order to change the dosage or change the drug if necessary.

A person suffering from epilepsy should watch for side effects, such as rashes or stomach upset, and if they occur, tell their doctor immediately. It is prohibited to overrule a specialist’s decisions or change the dosage of an epileptic on your own, as the treatment regimen may be disrupted.

People close to the epileptic should know all the features of the disease, for example, how long it lasts and what to do during an attack. Indeed, in the absence of help, a person may hit something or choke on his tongue. Their support is especially important, since people suffering from epilepsy must feel it in order not to become depressed.

Anyone can prevent an epileptic attack if they follow simple rules and follow the doctor’s recommendations. The main thing is that the course of treatment lasts a long time and without interruptions. In this case, the effect will be lasting and all that remains is to maintain it.

The causes of epilepsy in children and adults are different. But epilepsy that occurs in childhood often continues in adulthood. At least some forms of epilepsy stop during adolescence. It is believed that epilepsy can occur in any person with a strong impact on the brain (fall, blow to the head, road accident). The causes of epilepsy have not been fully elucidated, although epileptic attacks were known by ancient healers, and scientists have been studying this problem for a long time. We will focus on the most obvious development factors and causes of epilepsy.

What are the main causes of epilepsy?

1. Heredity (most often a combination of genetic and acquired factors). If one parent has epilepsy, the chance of the child developing it will be approximately 6%; if both the father and mother have epilepsy, the risk increases to 12%. Moreover, epilepsy manifests itself at an earlier age than it appeared in the parents.
2. One of the causes of epilepsy is brain abnormalities (intrauterine development defects), the occurrence of which largely depends on the course of pregnancy.
3. Intrauterine infection can cause epilepsy if the mother suffered an infectious disease during pregnancy or had unsanitized foci of chronic infection.
4. Brain damage during childbirth (traumatic brain injury) is one of the early causes of epilepsy.
5. Brain tumors often provoke seizures and cause epilepsy.
6. Strokes in older people can cause epilepsy in the post-rehabilitation period in 10% of cases. Early cases of epilepsy may occur within the first week after a stroke.
7. Head injury as a result of a bruise or a traffic accident. Severe head trauma with loss of consciousness can provoke epilepsy even after several years.
8. Somatic diseases of various origins - cerebral palsy, vascular diseases.
9. Infectious diseases. The most common infections that cause epilepsy are measles, whooping cough, meningitis, encephalitis, scarlet fever, and pneumonia.
10. Metabolic disorders (increased amount of sugar, consumption of high-calorie foods). With such disorders, epilepsy responds to treatment with diet and certain supplements. But it is impossible to cure this epilepsy with diet alone.
11. Taking certain medications (especially antidepressants, bronchodilators) provokes epilepsy. Sudden cessation of the use of barbiturates, Valium, and Dalmana can also cause the development of epilepsy.
12. Epilepsy can be caused by insecticide poisoning or drug use (especially seizures are possible during withdrawal).
13. Alcoholic epilepsy is a complication of epilepsy. Unfortunately, the percentage of patients with alcoholic epilepsy is growing. If alcoholic epilepsy becomes chronic, then seizures may recur regardless of whether the patient has taken alcohol or not.
14. Multiple sclerosis. Epileptic activity begins to appear against the background of the appearance of plaques. And if from the very beginning, during the growth and formation of plaques, the attacks are periodic, then after their growth stops, the attacks become constant.

Factors that provoke an epileptic attack

• Active rocking of children before bedtime.
• It happens that an attack is provoked by the interaction of antiepileptic drugs with other medications or by an independent sharp reduction in the dose of drugs when the condition improves.
• Alcohol. Seizures usually appear the next day after intoxication, since alcohol intoxication reduces the compensatory capabilities of the brain.
• Sleep disturbances, insufficient or excessive sleep. It is necessary to go to bed and wake up at the same time. Patients with epilepsy should not be woken up suddenly.
• Stress and acute emotional experiences, as a rule, provoke an attack of convulsions.
• Sound stimulus. It is rare, but it happens that an attack of convulsions can occur in response to the sound of a motor, a drill, or an unusual sound, for example, the croaking of frogs or a sudden, unexpected sound stimulus.
• Light stimulus. The attack is provoked by a combination of light and shadow (flashing leaves before the eyes, walking along an alley when the sun's rays illuminate it from the side, flashing lights at a disco, color music, the glare of the sun in the water). A faulty TV can cause seizures. It is advisable to turn on a floor lamp or dim local light when watching TV, then the strain on the eyes is reduced.
• Working at a computer or reading for a long time provokes a headache, the appearance of spots before the eyes, and, therefore, can cause an attack of epilepsy.

First aid for an epileptic attack

Emergency care for an epileptic attack is as follows:

1. If a person feels the warning signs of epilepsy, it is necessary to place him on his back on the floor or sofa bed and unbutton his collar (free him from tight and constricting clothing)
2. Don't panic...
3. Isolate the patient from damaging and life-threatening objects (sharp edges of furniture, scissors, pins, water, glasses, glass).
4. As quickly as possible, approach the patient and turn his entire shoulder girdle to one side so that there is no aspiration of saliva, vomit and blood (sometimes flowing out profusely when biting the tongue), to prevent tongue retraction. You cannot turn only your head to the side and press it to the floor. You can press your head to the floor only by pressing down on the shoulder girdle, even lean on it; it is advisable to place a pillow or blanket (clothing) rolled up under your head.
5. In order to unclench the jaws (prevent tongue bite), spoons, spatulas or other metal objects should not be used as a mouth dilator. Remember that one wrong action can harm the patient. A broken tooth is a foreign body in the larynx; moreover, blood may bleed from the hole of the torn tooth. Wooden chopsticks and plastic spoons and forks break and can become murder weapons. As a last resort, you can fold a cloth handkerchief several times and push it into the corner of your mouth between your teeth. In this way, tongue biting can be prevented.
6. During an attack, behave quietly, observe the course of the attack, record the duration of the attack by the second hand.
7. During an attack, do not try to give the patient medicine or water.
8. If the attack is prolonged, you can administer the medicine prescribed by your doctor rectally. Typically, the anticonvulsant effect appears within 4-5 minutes.

Helping a patient after an epileptic attack

After an attack, it is necessary for the patient to fall asleep. Help him move onto the bed, make him comfortable. Monitor the patient during sleep. Only if sleep lasts more than 2-3 hours can we assume that the attack has stopped and the patient is safe. If you witness the first case of seizures, you need to call an ambulance.

There are many factors that provoke epileptic attacks, and they are different for everyone. For some it is a loud sound, bright light or a stressful situation, but for others it is impossible not to get enough sleep. However, in clinical practice, the most common triggers of attacks are identified.

Epilepsy is a complex neurological disease. Seizures are triggered by abnormal neuronal activity in specific areas or throughout the cerebral cortex. It is impossible to say exactly what most often provokes epileptic attacks in adults and children without researching a particular patient. Some people inherit it, others get it as a consequence of a head injury or alcoholism.

To understand what can cause epilepsy, first of all you need to talk to your relatives. Because the disease is often inherited.

Transmission directly from parents is possible in a small percentage of cases. If only the mother or father is sick, then the child’s chance of getting sick is 4%, and if both parents are sick, then 10%.

From relatives of the older generation, the likelihood of getting the disease is higher. Typically, a predisposition to epileptic seizures is transmitted through generations, linked to gender. That is, from grandmother to granddaughter, from grandfather to grandson.

It is important to realize that it is not seizures that are inherited, but the tendency to have them, that is, the readiness of some neurons to be in a pathologically excited state.

In this case, the disease does not always manifest itself. What happens is that 2-3 generations of a family are asymptomatic carriers of the gene and have never suffered from attacks in their lives.

And after 3-5 generations, the baby develops active convulsive pathology.

As a rule, when epilepsy is inherited, the disease manifests itself earlier than in the previous carrier. Sometimes, from the first months of life, the baby experiences convulsions.

A genetic abnormality is not a death sentence. As a rule, by the time of puberty, with proper treatment, the attacks disappear forever.

Why do children get sick?

Children are the most common patients diagnosed with epilepsy. Symptoms may appear immediately after birth, during primary school or adolescence.

Moreover, the sudden onset of an illness in a child with absolutely healthy parents causes bewilderment among the latter: what can provoke an attack of epilepsy in a child?

Neurologists believe that in early attacks, in addition to heredity, the following are to blame:

• pathologies of brain development;
• early childhood trauma;
• complications during childbirth;
• infectious diseases affecting the brain;
• vascular diseases leading to changes in the blood circulation of the brain.

Oxygen starvation of the brain is severely reflected due to compression of the umbilical cord vessels and the consequences of the head passing through the too narrow pelvis of the woman in labor.

The same reasons often provoke epileptic attacks in adults, but this does not mean that this is the only thing to be wary of.

Dream

Sleep period is another factor that causes epilepsy in humans. Quite a few people, usually in childhood, experience nocturnal or sleepy epilepsy attacks. But in the waking state they do not occur. They occur in the REM sleep phase and are expressed in convulsions, twitching, eye rolling, and involuntary urination.

Quite a few people, often in childhood, are observed. But in the waking state they never occur. They occur in the REM sleep phase and are expressed in convulsions, twitching, eye rolling, and involuntary urination.

Scientists are still trying to figure out what triggers the nocturnal version of the disease. It was also not possible to establish the dependence of regression or progression of the syndrome on external factors.

Even with treatment, some people’s symptoms disappear irrevocably at a certain age, and in 1/3 of patients, after some time, daytime attacks begin.

Regular lack of sleep also has a detrimental effect on brain function. This is what can cause an epileptic attack in students and young people who prefer a nocturnal lifestyle.

After some time, against the background of a disturbed sleep pattern, the body, and primarily the brain, becomes so exhausted that the predisposition that had been dormant until that time wakes up.

As a rule, with this cause of the disease, symptoms go away soon after normalization of sleep patterns.

Alcohol

Alcohol is what statistically most often causes acquired epilepsy in humans.

If a person has had an epileptic seizure at least once in his life or a genetic predisposition to it has been established, then doctors advise excluding any alcohol-containing drinks for life, since even a glass of red wine, if the circumstances are unfortunate, can provoke the onset of an epileptic attack.

Alcohol abuse is also becoming the main cause of acquired epilepsy.

First, the addiction begins to negatively affect brain cells, destroying them. And only later they degenerate and begin to react pathologically to excitement.

This option is more dangerous, because alcoholics refuse to admit their addiction, and therefore refuse to be treated for it. And without complete abstinence from alcohol, recovery cannot occur.

Moreover, over time, seizures will become more frequent and intensified.

According to statistics, alcoholic epilepsy gives a significant percentage of mortality during an attack.

In alcoholic epilepsy, seizures occur not only during the consumption of alcoholic beverages, but also during the hangover period, when the body experiences stress from intoxication.

Menstruation

During puberty, with the appearance of menstruation, some girls with a genetic predisposition experience focal or generalized epileptic seizures.

As a rule, they stalk women from early adolescence until puberty. That is, while their menstrual cycle is not yet established and often gets confused for various reasons.