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Epilepsy Treatment Cost in India

Costs starts from USD3500 to USD6000
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How Much Does Epilepsy Treatment Cost in India?

The cost of Epilepsy in India typically ranges between USD 3500 - USD 6000. However, this cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type and severity of the condition, treatment techniques chosen, the healthcare facility's location and reputation, the treating professionals' experience and specialization, and the patient's overall health status.

Additionally, factors like the duration of treatment, the need for follow-up care, and the use of advanced technologies or specialized treatments can further influence the overall cost.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Epilepsy Treatment:

The goal of epilepsy treatment is to simply manage and control epilepsy and its symptoms with the main form of treatment being through the administration of antiepileptic drugs. These medications assist in changing the electrical activity in the brain to avoid seizures which type of medicine to be administered depends on the sort of epilepsy and kind of seizures. If medications fail, treatments including lobectomy, laser ablation, or VNS may be the appropriate treatment solution. Moreover, dietary interventions such as the ketogenic or Modified Atkins diets that help to decrease seizure intensity, can be applied to patients who have no adequate response to other medications or are children.

For some patients, an implant is a favorable intervention such as Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) or VNS, aimed to control seizures by electrically stimulating the brain or the vagus nerve. These treatments are effective but not without their dangers: the side effects of medications, possible surgery complications, or complications arising from diet. Seizures in epilepsy are managed based on each person’s features to achieve optimal seizure freedom and maximal quality of life.

Cost of Epilepsy Treatment in Major Cities of India

CityMinimum Cost (USD)Minimum Cost (INR)Maximum Cost (USD)Maximum Cost (INR)
BangaloreUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
ChennaiUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
DelhiUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
FaridabadUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
GhaziabadUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
GurgaonUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
GurugramUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
HyderabadUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
KochiUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
KolkataUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
MohaliUSD 3150269766USD 5400462456
MumbaiUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
NoidaUSD 3500299740USD 6000513840
PanjimUSD 3150269766USD 5400462456

Epilepsy Treatment Cost : A Global Comparison

CountryMinimum CostMinimum Local CurrencyMaximum CostMaximum Local Currency
IndiaUSD 3500INR 299740USD 6000INR 513840
IsraelUSD 14330ILS 50728USD 38330ILS 135688
LithuaniaUSD 14330LTL 49019USD 38330LTL 131115
MalaysiaUSD 5000MYR 21200USD 20000MYR 84800
Moroccoget request
PolandUSD 500PLN 1880USD 15000PLN 56400
Saudi ArabiaUSD 1000SAR 3750USD 10000SAR 37500
SingaporeUSD 30000SGD 38700USD 60000SGD 77400
SpainUSD 20000ESP 2940798USD 60000ESP 8822394
SwitzerlandUSD 5000CHF 4150USD 50000CHF 41500
ThailandUSD 12000THB 392520USD 22000THB 719620
TunisiaUSD 500TND 1490USD 3000TND 8940
TurkeyUSD 2000TRY 78120USD 36000TRY 1406160
United Arab EmiratesUSD 11500AED 42205USD 23000AED 84410
United Kingdomget request

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Epilepsy is a neurological problem characterized by repeated seizures. There are numerous varieties of epilepsy, some of which have been linked to causes and others that remain unknown.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, epilepsy is a prevalent disorder that affects roughly 1.2% of the US population. It affects people of all sexes, races, ethnicities, and ages.

Seizure symptoms differ greatly across people. Some people may lose consciousness during a seizure, while others may not. Some people may experience brief periods of blank staring, while others may have convulsions that involve recurrent shaking of the limbs or legs.

It is crucial to realize that having one seizure doesn't mean you have epilepsy. Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person experiences at least two unprovoked seizures occurring at least 24 hours apart. Unprovoked seizures are those that do not have a clear immediate cause.

Classification

There are four main types of Epilepsy according to the revised classification:

  • Focal
  • Generalized
  • Combined generalized focal
  • Unknown.

Cause

Approximately half of individuals with epilepsy have no identifiable cause for their condition. For the other half, epilepsy can be related to many factors, such as:

  • Genetic influence
  • Head trauma
  • Infections such as Meningitis, HIV
  • Injury before birth

The primary aims of treating epilepsy are to prevent harm, reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, suppress or abolish them completely, and improve the patient's overall quality of life. Reducing drug side effects and enabling healthy physical, mental, and social development are also long-term care goals.

If you notice any of the following during a seizure, seek medical care immediately: The seizure lasts longer than five minutes. Even after anti-seizure medication, you continue to have seizures, a second seizure occurs immediately, and your breathing or consciousness does not return when the seizure stops. Seek medical attention if it is your initial seizure.

A neurological examination, an electroencephalogram (EEG), MRI or CT brain scans, and a detailed medical and seizure history are all included in the diagnosis and treatment planning. Patients may need blood tests before they start or change treatment, keep a seizure diary, and provide a list of all their current medications.

  • Surgery: For those patients whose focal seizures cannot be controlled with medication, surgery is recommended. Involves the removal of seizure-causing brain tissue.
  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): A device implanted in the chest stimulates the vagus nerve with electrical impulses.
  • Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): A device implanted in the head offers detection and response to real-time seizure activity.
  • The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that is particularly effective in children with drug-resistant epilepsy.
  • Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): When treatment is ineffective, electrodes are implanted in the brain to regulate abnormal activity.

It may take weeks or months to adapt to new drug regimens. Surgery usually lasts three to six hours, and hospitalisation lasts three to seven days. Placement of a VNS, RNS, or DBS typically requires one to three hours. Drug monitoring and follow-up over the long term are ongoing.

  • Memory or cognitive difficulties
  • Surgical complications involve bleeding, infection, and neurological deficits.
  • Device-related difficulties (malfunction, infection)
  • In ketogenic therapy, dietary intolerance

For the majority of patients, therapy significantly reduces or eliminates seizures, helping restore safety, independence, and daily functioning. With continuous treatment or surgery, individuals might stop having seizures.

Recovery from surgery involves rest, care of the wound, and a gradual return to normal activities. Medication and device changes may be required for months. Patients require frequent neurological checks, blood work, and monitoring of seizures for ongoing care.

Approximately 60–70% of patients experience good seizure control with medication. Surgery may yield seizure freedom in 50–80% of appropriate patients. Non-medication treatments provide uncertain success and are generally reserved for medication-resistant epilepsy.

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Explore Hospitals ( 57 )
Epilepsy Treatment in Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Mumbai, India

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)3053 - 4075250529 - 332129
Antiepileptic Medications30 - 1022496 - 8352
EEG (Electroencephalogram)102 - 3058350 - 24849
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)204 - 50816602 - 41750
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)10179 - 20347829278 - 1659559
Epilepsy Surgery5073 - 15228415515 - 1247634
Ketogenic Diet507 - 153041665 - 124855
Neurofeedback102 - 2038312 - 16716
  • Address: Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Acharya Donde Marg, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  • Facilities related to Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children: SIM, Accommodation, Airport Transfer
Epilepsy Treatment in The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Chennai, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
  • Joint Commission International, or JCI

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)2848 - 3798227310 - 302807
Antiepileptic Medications28 - 922330 - 7571
EEG (Electroencephalogram)93 - 2857700 - 23320
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)187 - 46215240 - 38449
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)9376 - 18611759658 - 1520549
Epilepsy Surgery4626 - 14193382090 - 1160960
Ketogenic Diet463 - 139738754 - 115781
Neurofeedback93 - 1907713 - 15555
  • Address: MIOT International, Mount Poonamallee Road, Sathya Nagar, Manapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Facilities related to The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology: Interpreter, SIM, Airport Transfer, Accommodation
Epilepsy Treatment in Sanar International Hospital: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Gurugram, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
  • Joint Commission International, or JCI

Sanar International Hospital is a multispeciality hospital based on Golf Course Road in Gurugram, a part of Delhi NCR. It was founded in 2018 and houses one of the most comprehensive and advanced surgical care specialties. This 150-bedded facility is committed to providing the best patient experiences and healthcare services is the core of the hospital’s mission. Staffed by a group of visionary and competent medical professionals who are well-versed in their fields and eminent for their empathy and understanding, Sanar International Hospital provides optimal care to its patients, making it a popular

Specialties in the Hospital such as Heart, Bone, and Joint neurosciences, Cancer, Kidney and Liver Transplant, and other successful procedures along with experienced medical professionals have made a mark for themselves among domestic patients and international patients who come to India to have the finest healthcare services. It follows strict international practices and believes that the centricity of the patient is essential for providing high-quality care through world-class infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities. The technologies offered by the Hospital include Digital X-rays, MRI, CT, Ultrasound, transfusion medicine, pharmacy, laboratory services, 24 hrs emergency and ambulance services.

It offers more than 20 plus specialties such as General Medicine, Anesthesiology, Cardiac Sciences, Ophthalmology, Gastroenterology, Hematology, Orthopedics, General Surgery & Surgical, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Hepato Biliary Surgery, Pediatrics, Liver Transplantation, and Critical Care Medicine. The Hospital has a highly skilled medical staff of neuro-anesthetists, neurologists, specialized neurocritical care experts, neurosurgeons neuropsychologists, and neuropsychiatrists. There are specific centers for the treatment of epilepsy, stroke, brain tumors, movement disorders, spinal problems, and headaches.

Epilepsy Treatment in Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Ghaziabad, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
  • National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

Founded in 2010, Manipal Hospital-Ghaziabad (formerly Columbia Asia Hospital) is a well-known multispecialty hospital accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH). With 100 beds, the hospital is committed to providing effective and reasonably priced healthcare in a clean and safe setting. The hospital has several departments that are known for their expertise, including Orthopaedics, Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Plastic Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, ENT, and more. Due to this recognition, the hospital is now regarded as one of the best medical establishments in the Ghaziabad area.

Epilepsy Treatment in Manipal Hospital, Gurugram: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Gurgaon, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in Manipal Hospital, Gurugram and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)3037 - 4059249967 - 331338
Antiepileptic Medications31 - 1012485 - 8336
EEG (Electroencephalogram)102 - 3058300 - 24885
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)203 - 50716578 - 41420
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)10121 - 20316829834 - 1659909
Epilepsy Surgery5083 - 15197415965 - 1242582
Ketogenic Diet508 - 151841774 - 124288
Neurofeedback101 - 2028298 - 16715
  • Address: Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, Carterpuri Road, Block F, Palam Vihar, Gurugram, Haryana, India
  • Facilities related to Manipal Hospital, Gurugram: Post operative followup, Mobility Accessible Rooms, Online Doctor Consultation, Air Ambulance, Religious Facilities
Epilepsy Treatment in Manipal Hospitals Goa, Dona Paula: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Panjim, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in Manipal Hospitals Goa, Dona Paula and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)3031 - 4070249137 - 331618
Antiepileptic Medications31 - 1012498 - 8354
EEG (Electroencephalogram)101 - 3048341 - 24943
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)203 - 50616614 - 41668
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)10132 - 20294829145 - 1667720
Epilepsy Surgery5085 - 15287414760 - 1244273
Ketogenic Diet509 - 152541606 - 124667
Neurofeedback101 - 2038333 - 16689
  • Address: Manipal Hospital, Panjim, Goa, India
  • Facilities related to Manipal Hospitals Goa, Dona Paula: Post operative followup, Mobility Accessible Rooms, Online Doctor Consultation, Air Ambulance, Religious Facilities
Epilepsy Treatment in Metro Hospital: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Noida, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in Metro Hospital and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)2785 - 3799232873 - 302776
Antiepileptic Medications28 - 942293 - 7688
EEG (Electroencephalogram)95 - 2837652 - 22845
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)185 - 46815402 - 38341
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)9242 - 18445774522 - 1557759
Epilepsy Surgery4622 - 14086383318 - 1135387
Ketogenic Diet464 - 140038102 - 115212
Neurofeedback94 - 1867738 - 15230
  • Address: Metro Hospital & Heart Institute, Buddh Vihar, Block X, Sector 12, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
  • Facilities related to Metro Hospital: Choice of Meals, Interpreter, SIM, TV inside room, Accommodation
Epilepsy Treatment in IBS Hospital: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Delhi, India

  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in IBS Hospital and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)3055 - 4047249714 - 332234
Antiepileptic Medications30 - 1012485 - 8292
EEG (Electroencephalogram)102 - 3058297 - 25081
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)203 - 50816632 - 41686
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)10171 - 20214831204 - 1666937
Epilepsy Surgery5091 - 15276417905 - 1250659
Ketogenic Diet509 - 152141708 - 125083
Neurofeedback102 - 2038290 - 16567
  • Address: IBS Hospital Lajpat Nagar, Block L, Lajpat Nagar III, Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi
  • Facilities related to IBS Hospital: Choice of Meals, Interpreter, SIM, TV inside room, Accommodation
Epilepsy Treatment in Shanti Mukand Hospital: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Delhi, India

5.0 ( 1 Reviews )
  • National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
  • National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in Shanti Mukand Hospital and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)3059 - 4054249695 - 333356
Antiepileptic Medications30 - 1022493 - 8360
EEG (Electroencephalogram)102 - 3068318 - 24997
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)204 - 50616721 - 41694
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)10152 - 20336831813 - 1667738
Epilepsy Surgery5100 - 15187415351 - 1253343
Ketogenic Diet509 - 152741672 - 125263
Neurofeedback101 - 2028306 - 16724
  • Address: Shanti Mukand Hospital, Dayanand Vihar, Anand Vihar, Delhi, India
  • Facilities related to Shanti Mukand Hospital: Choice of Meals, TV inside room, Accommodation, Airport Transfer
Epilepsy Treatment in NeuroGen Brain and Spine Institute: Costs, Top Doctors, and Reviews

Mumbai, India

  • ISO 9001

Types of Epilepsy Treatment in NeuroGen Brain and Spine Institute and its associated cost

Treatment OptionApproximate Cost Range (USD)Approximate Cost Range (INR)
Epilepsy Treatment (Overall)2835 - 3752230733 - 302563
Antiepileptic Medications28 - 932265 - 7735
EEG (Electroencephalogram)93 - 2827649 - 22709
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)190 - 47015093 - 38622
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)9335 - 18718775499 - 1519675
Epilepsy Surgery4624 - 14152385314 - 1142883
Ketogenic Diet470 - 140838143 - 114853
Neurofeedback93 - 1867767 - 15518
  • Address: Neurogen Brain and Spine Institute, Palm Beach Rd, Seawoods West, Sector 40, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  • Facilities related to NeuroGen Brain and Spine Institute: Choice of Meals, SIM, TV inside room, Accommodation, Airport Transfer

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Process Involved for Epilepsy Treatment in India

  • Consultation with a Neurologist: Initial evaluation and diagnosis of epilepsy type and seizure frequency.
  • Neurological & Psychological Assessments: Detailed neurological examination.
  • Brain Imaging (MRI/CT Scans): To identify the seizure focus (area of the brain where seizures originate).
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG): To monitor brain wave activity and identify seizure patterns.
  • Informed Consent: Detailed explanation of treatment options, surgery (if applicable), and associated risks.
  • Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
  • Focal Seizures
  • Generalised Seizures
  • Seizures due to brain injury, tumours, or other neurological conditions.
  • Failure to respond to at least two anti-epileptic medications is known as drug-resistant epilepsy.
  • Regular seizures interfere with day-to-day functioning.
  • Suitable candidates for cutting-edge treatments or surgery.
  • Improved Seizure Control (fewer or no seizures)
  • Improved Quality of Life
  • Reduced Dependence on Medications
  • Minimal Side Effects
  • Enhanced Cognitive Function
  • Neurologist
  • Neurosurgeon
  • Psychiatrist
  • Fill out the inquiry form: Fill out the form to provide us with the relevant information about your condition.
  • Consult with Our Healthcare Expert: One of our qualified specialists will contact you for a consultation.
  • Receive a Detailed Treatment Plan: After examining your situation, we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan that includes expert views and cost breakdowns for various choices.
  • Choose your preferred option: Choose the treatment option that suits you the best.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of Epilepsy Treatment in India starts from $2000. NABH, JCI are just some of the accreditations which top hospitals in India hold where a Epilepsy Treatment is conducted.

The cost of Epilepsy Treatment in India may differ from one medical facility to the other. The cost quoted by some of the best hospitals for Epilepsy Treatment in India generally covers the pre-surgery investigations of the patient. Typically, the package cost of Epilepsy Treatment in India includes the expenses related to the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, hospital, meals, nursing and ICU stay. A prolonged hospital stay due to delayed recovery, new diagnosis and complications after surgery may increase the cost of Epilepsy Treatment in India.

Epilepsy Treatment in India is offered by multiple hospitals across the country. The following are some of the most renowned hospitals for Epilepsy Treatment in India:

  1. Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj
  2. IBS Hospital
  3. Sarvodaya Hospital
  4. Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali
  5. Metro Hospital
  6. Manipal Hospital Dwarka

The recovery of the patient many vary, depending on several factors. However, on an average, patient is supposed to stay for about 21 days in the country after discharge. This duration of stay is recommended to complete all the necessary follow-ups and control tests to ensure that the surgery was successful.

There are certain additional cost that the patient has to pay apart from the Epilepsy Treatment cost. The extra charges may start from USD 50 per person.

There are many cities that offer Epilepsy Treatment in India, including the following:

  • Noida
  • Mumbai
  • Gurugram
  • New Delhi
  • Bangalore
  • Chennai
  • Hyderabad

There are several doctors who are available for telemedicine consultation for patients requiring Epilepsy Treatment in India. The following are some of the best doctors for Epilepsy Treatment in India who are available for video consultation:

DoctorCostSchedule Your Appointment
Dr. P K SachdevaUSD 35Schedule Now
Dr. Pawan GargUSD 18Schedule Now
Dr. Mukesh PandeyUSD 14Schedule Now
Dr. Sanjay Kumar ChoudharyUSD 35Schedule Now
Dr. Ritu JhaUSD 14Schedule Now

The patient has to spend about 3 days in the hospital after Epilepsy Treatment for proper recovery and to get clearance for discharge. The doctors team review the patient's recovery during this time with the help of blood tests and imaging scans. Once they feel that everything is on track, the patient is discharged.

The average rating for Epilepsy Treatment hospitals in India is 3.9. This rating is automatically calculated on the basis of several parameters such as the infrastructure of the hospital, quality of services, nursing support and other services.

There are more than 6 hospitals that offer Epilepsy Treatment in India. These hospitals have proper infrastructure for the treatment of patients who require kidney transplant. Apart from good services, the hospitals are known to follow all standard and legal guidelines as dictated by the local medical affairs body or organization.

Some of the top doctors for Epilepsy Treatment in India are:

  1. Dr. S K Rajan

Epilepsy surgery is a brain surgery in which a part of the brain is removed to stop or limit the number of seizures or their severity. The electrical activity between the nerve cells in your brain can suddenly spike during seizures, which can change:

  • Awareness
  • skeletal control (your muscles may twitch or jerk)
  • Sensations
  • Emotions
  • Behavior

In about half of those who have epilepsy, there is no known cause. The condition can be linked to a number of things in the other half, such as:

  • Genetic predisposition: Some forms of epilepsy, which can be divided into groups based on the type of seizure you have or the area of the brain that is impacted, run in families. There is probably a genetic component in these situations.
  • Genetics: While some epilepsy types have been linked to particular genes by researchers, for the majority of people, genes account for only a portion of the disease's causes.
  • Brain injury: Epilepsy may result from head trauma from a car accident or another traumatic injury.
  • Abnormal brain function: Epilepsy can be brought on by abnormalities in the brain, such as brain tumors or vascular anomalies like arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and cavernous malformations. The leading cause of epilepsy in adults over the age of 35 is stroke.
  • Infections: Epilepsy can be brought on by meningitis, HIV, viral encephalitis, and some parasitic infections.
  • Birth injury: Babies are vulnerable to brain damage before birth, which can be brought on by a number of things, including a mother's infection, inadequate nutrition, or oxygen deprivation. Epilepsy or cerebral palsy may be the result of this brain damage.
  • Developmental disorders: Developmental disorders like autism and epilepsy can sometimes coexist.

Epilepsy occurs due to abnormal brain activity. When seizures take place they can affect brain processes and coordination. The signs and symptoms of epilepsy include:

  • Temporarily feeling confused
  • Staring spell
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Jerking movements of arms and legs that are uncontrollable 
  • Loss of consciousness and awareness
  • Other psychological signs like deja vu, fear, and anxiety

There are several tests available to diagnose and determine if you have epilepsy. Initially, the doctor will take down your medical history and review your signs and symptoms. The diagnostic tests may include:

  • A neurologic test in which the doctor will check your motor abilities, mental function, behavior, and other areas to find out the type of epilepsy you have.
  • Blood tests to determine any signs of infections, genetic conditions, and other issues that may be associated with seizures.
  • Electroencephalogram
  • High-density ECG
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • Positron emission tomography (PET)
  • Single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT)
  • Functional MRI (fMRI)
  • Statistical parametric mapping (SPM)
  • Electrical source imaging (ESI)
  • Magnetoencephalography (MEG)

The success rate i.e. the chances of eliminating epilepsy permanently in India are estimated to be 70%. The outcomes of the treatment vary depending on the approach and type of treatment performed. The first step used to control seizures is medications. If it doesn’t work, then only the doctor may recommend a surgical procedure. Resection of tissues in the temporal lobe is the most effective way of achieving seizure-free outcomes in about two-thirds of the population. According to various reports, when a patient is on anti-seizure medications and shows no signs of seizures in the first year after a temporal lobe surgery, they have a high chance (87% -90%)of being seizure free for up to 2 years. If the patient shows no seizures in two years, the chances of being seizure-free are 95% after 5 years and 82% after 10 years.

The medications given for epilepsy may have certain side effects. They include:

  • Weight gain
  • Loss of bone density
  • Skin rashes
  • Loss of coordination
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Speech problems
  • Memory and cognitive issues

Some rare and severe side effects may include:

  • Severe rash
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
  • Inflammation of certain organs, such as your liver

There are many treatment options available for epilepsy. The most common and preferred treatment option for epilepsy is anti-seizure medications also known as anti-epileptic medications. It proves to be effective in most cases and helps people recover from epilepsy. In other cases, it is successfully able to reduce the frequency of seizures with help of combination medicines. Surgery may be an option when medications fail to provide adequate control over seizures. During an epilepsy surgery, your surgeon will remove an area of your brain that's responsible for seizures.

In some cases, minimally invasive approaches such as MRI-guided stereotactic laser ablation may work, in other cases, open surgery or other alternatives may be suggested. Some of the alternative treatments to medications and surgery include:

  • Vagus nerve stimulation
  • Ketogenic diet
  • Deep brain stimulation
  • Responsive neurostimulation

Yes, you can drive with epilepsy, however, you have to follow the state driving regulations and guidelines and visit your doctor for regular follow-ups. For people who have been free of seizure for about a year, driving is allowed.

Children who have epilepsy are more likely to experience issues being attentive in the classroom, learning disabilities, and other cognitive deficiencies, such as memory or problem-solving difficulties. The same underlying brain issue is frequently what causes both seizures and cognitive issues. In some cases, the seizures themselves can have an effect on how the brain develops, especially in children who experience seizures frequently. Although anti-seizure medications are crucial, occasionally they can have negative effects on attention or thinking speed. For some kids, having seizures can also interfere with their ability to sleep, go to school, and concentrate during the school day.

Author

Dr. Abdullah Rahil

MPT (Neuro)

5 Years of Experience

Dr. Abdullah Rahil, M.P.T. (Neurology), is a dedicated physiotherapy professional specializing in orthopedic, neurological, and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. With strong clinical expertise, he focuses on improving patient mobility, reducing pain, and restoring functional independence through evidence-based rehabilitation techniques. He is skilled in advanced therapeutic approaches that support effective rehabilitation and recovery for a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, focusing on improving mobility, reducing pain, and restoring functional independence. Dr. Rahil has extensive experience managing diverse rehabilitation cases. His patient-centered approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans, continuous assessment, and comprehensive rehabilitation to achieve optimal recovery outcomes. . View More

Reviewer

⁠Dr Rakesh Kumar Dua

Spine & Neurosurgeon

25 Years of Experience

Dr. Rakesh Dua has more than 25+ years of clinical experience in spine surgeries. He is currently providing his services as Director, Neuro & Spine Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. Before joining Fortis Hospital, he was associated with Max super-specialist Hospital, Shalimar Bagh as Director Neurosurgery & Head Neuro Spine, and with UCMS & GTB hospital as head of the neurosurgery department. View More