Finding Relief
Seizures happen when there’s a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. Thankfully, there are treatments like Fintepla, a prescription medication specifically approved to treat seizures associated with Dravet syndrome, a rare and severe form of epilepsy.
Fintepla
Fintepla works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that helps regulate mood, behavior and seizure activity. It is believed that by boosting serotonin levels, Fintepla helps stabilize brain activity, reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.
Treatments for Seizures
1. Medication: The First Line of Defense
For many people, seizure medications (or anti-epileptic drugs) are the main treatment. These medications can reduce or even stop seizures. Doctors often try one medication at a time to find the right fit, as everyone responds differently.
Some common seizure medications include:
- Phenytoin: Good for controlling many seizure types.
- Valproic Acid: Often used for generalized seizures.
- Carbamazepine: Helps with partial seizures.
- Topiramate: A newer option with fewer side effects.
These drugs can have side effects, like tiredness or dizziness. But once the correct dose and type are found, many people find their seizures reduce or go away completely.
2. Ketogenic Diet: Using Food to Help
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that’s especially helpful for children with hard-to-control seizures. This diet changes how the body uses energy, shifting it from glucose (sugar) to ketones (from fat). For reasons not fully understood, this diet helps some people have fewer seizures.
Important points about the ketogenic diet:
- It’s usually planned by a doctor and dietitian.
- Meals are high in fats, like butter and oils, and very low in carbs.
- The diet needs close monitoring to ensure it’s safe and effective.
The ketogenic diet can be challenging, but some people find it reduces their seizures when medications alone aren’t enough.
3. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): A Device to Help the Brain
Vagus nerve stimulation is a treatment that uses a small device placed under the skin near the chest. The device sends mild electrical signals to the brain, helping to prevent seizures. This option is often for people who don’t get full control with medication.
How VNS works:
- A small surgery places the device under the skin.
- It sends regular pulses to the vagus nerve, which affects brain activity.
- The device can be adjusted as needed by a doctor.
This treatment doesn’t stop all seizures, but it often reduces how often they happen and can make them less severe.
4. Surgery: A Lasting Solution for Some
In some cases, surgery may be an option, especially if seizures come from one area of the brain. Surgery might involve removing a small part of the brain where the seizures start. This can lead to fewer or no seizures in some people.
Things to know about seizure surgery:
- It’s usually considered when other treatments don’t work.
- A doctor will do tests to see if surgery might be safe and effective.
- Surgery is not for everyone, but for those who qualify, it can make a big difference.
5. Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): A Smart Device for Seizures
Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) is a newer device that helps monitor brain activity and respond to unusual patterns. RNS is placed in the skull and can detect signs of a seizure starting, sending quick electrical pulses to stop it.
Key points about RNS:
- It’s like a “smart" device that only sends signals when needed.
- The device helps reduce the frequency of seizures.
- It’s an option for people who don’t respond well to medications.
6. Lifestyle Tips: Daily Habits That Can Help
Aside from medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce seizure triggers:
- Sleep well: Poor sleep can trigger seizures, so try to get enough rest.
- Avoid triggers: Stress, alcohol and flashing lights can bring on seizures for some people.
- Regular exercise: Light exercise can help keep the body and mind strong.
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet keeps energy stable, which can help prevent seizures.
Finding the Right Treatment
Everyone’s experience with seizures is unique. Working closely with a doctor can help find the best treatment or combination of treatments for each person. With the right care, many people can lead healthy and active lives.