Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition that creates a neurological imbalance, which in turn leads to loss of consciousness and epileptic attacks. Ayurveda calls epilepsy as Apasmara which needs a long-term management plan that includes herbal medication, panchakarma, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital ,situated in kochi ,kerala having good neurodevelopmental team consist of Ayurvedic neuro-developmental pediatrician , diet consultants , yoga and naturopathic experts , panchakarma specialised doctors ,physiotherapists ,well trained therapists for child care .

Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital utilizes a holistic approach to treat epilepsy. Their treatment focuses on balancing the doshas – vata, pitta and kapha – which can become imbalanced and cause seizures. They use internal and external treatments including medicated oils, herbal powders and herbal drinks.

There are a number of potential causes of epilepsy in children. Some of the most common include genetics, brain injury or abnormal development, and infections.

Genetics is often a significant factor, as around 30-40% of childhood epilepsy cases have a genetic component. Certain genetic mutations or conditions can make a child more susceptible to developing epilepsy. This includes conditions like tuberous sclerosis, which affects brain development, and can cause seizures.

Brain injuries, either before or after birth, are another common cause. Things like traumatic brain injuries, lack of oxygen during birth, or infections of the brain and meninges (the membranes surrounding the brain) in infancy can damage brain cells and wiring. This damage can then trigger seizures later on.
Abnormal brain development can also be a risk factor. Conditions that affect how the brain forms during pregnancy, like congenital malformations, can disrupt brain function and cause epilepsy.

Lastly, certain infections, especially in early childhood, can increase epilepsy risk. Viral infections like chickenpox, influenza, and herpes encephalitis can all potentially trigger seizures or epilepsy in some children by irritating brain cells.

There are several main types of epilepsy that can affect children. The two broad categories are generalized epilepsy and focal epilepsy.

Generalized epilepsy means the seizures involve both sides of the brain. The main types are absence seizures (formerly called petit mal), tonic-clonic seizures (formerly called grand mal), myoclonic seizures, and atonic seizures.

Focal epilepsy means the seizures originate in one specific area of the brain. This includes simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures.

When evaluating a child for possible epilepsy, the first step is taking a detailed medical history from the parents and child. This includes asking about any head injuries, family history of seizures, developmental history, and symptoms during suspected seizures.

When evaluating a child for possible epilepsy, the first step is taking a detailed medical history from the parents and child. This includes asking about any head injuries, family history of seizures, developmental history, and symptoms during suspected seizures.

Physical examinations can help rule out other possible causes and identify any abnormalities. Investigations we may perform include an electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure electrical activity in the brain and detect seizures or seizure tendencies.

We may also order imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI of the brain to rule out any structural abnormalities that could be causing the seizures. Other blood tests can check for metabolic disorders and genetic conditions that can increase the risk of epilepsy.

If you’re experiencing repeated seizures or unusual symptoms that could indicate a seizure, like loss of awareness, uncontrolled movements, and sensory disturbances, make an appointment right away. Your doctor can determine if they’re caused by epilepsy and prescribe medication to control the seizures.

Sudden changes – Changes like sleep deprivation, stress, missing medication, drug use can trigger seizures in those with epilepsy. If you notice more frequent or severe seizures due to a recent change, get in for a checkup.
Head injuries, especially concussions and those that cause loss of consciousness, raise the risk of developing epilepsy later in life. Get evaluated if you’ve had a recent injury and now have seizure symptoms.

Epilepsy often runs in families, so a close relative with the condition increases your risk as well. Consider getting tested, especially if you now have seizure symptoms.

Other factors – Factors like brain tumors, strokes, central nervous system infections, and inborn defects can contribute to epilepsy. Consult a doctor if you have any of these conditions along with seizures.

Ayurveda considers epilepsy or Apasmara as a Vata disorder caused due to imbalance in Vata dosha. The imbalance in Vata leads to disturbances in the nervous system and disrupts the normal electrical signals in the brain which causes epileptic fits and seizures. Ayurveda aims to manage epilepsy in children through correcting the vitiated Vata dosha and strengthening the nervous system.

Pancha karma or the fivefold detoxification therapies play an important role in controlling epilepsy in children. Vamana or therapeutic vomiting helps to eliminate the toxins accumulated in the blood and tissues. Virechana or purgation therapy through herbal laxatives helps to eliminate the excess Kapha and cleanse the colon. Nasya or nasal administration of medicated oils and herbal drops help to pacify Vata dosha and relieve seizures. Basti or medicated enema therapy is extremely beneficial in children with epilepsy as it calms down the nervous system and controls the frequency of fits. Shirodhara or pouring of warm herbalized oil on the forehead also helps to pacify Vata and relieve stress.
Along with panchakarma, ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Kalmegh are prescribed to strengthen the nervous system. A proper diet and lifestyle that avoids foods that aggravate Vata like cold, dry, and frozen foods also aids in managing epilepsy in children.

Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital is a renowned Ayurvedic center located in Kochi, Kerala, known for providing holistic treatments for various health conditions, including epilepsy. Sanjeevanam offers a range of Ayurvedic therapies and treatments that can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency of seizures, and improve overall quality of life.

The center has a team of highly experienced and qualified Ayurvedic doctors and therapists who provide personalized treatment plans for each patient. The treatment approach at Sanjeevanam is based on the principles of Ayurveda, which involves a holistic approach to health that considers the body, mind, and spirit.

The treatment for epilepsy at Sanjeevanam includes a combination of herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. The center uses traditional Ayurvedic techniques such as Panchakarma, a detoxification process, and Abhyanga, a full-body massage, to help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Sanjeevanam also offers yoga and meditation classes to help patients manage stress and improve overall well-being.
In addition to its treatment programs, Sanjeevanam provides patients with personalized diet plans, based on the principles of Ayurveda, which include specific foods and herbs that are beneficial for the nervous system.

Overall, Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital is a highly recommended center for Ayurvedic treatment of epilepsy, providing patients with effective and holistic treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.