Epilepsy: The Electrical Storm in the Brain

Epilepsy is an ancient disease that has fascinated and frightened scientists and laymen alike. Before we acquired a working knowledge of the central nervous system, seizures were shrouded in mystery. In antiquity, the disease was accredited to gods and demonic possession, causing those with epilepsy to be feared and isolated. Epilepsy patients continued to face discrimination through the mid-20th century. This discrimination ranged from lack of access to health insurance, jobs, marriage inequality, and even forced sterilizations. Despite the strides that have been made, there are still many misconceptions globally regarding epilepsy. While there has been substantial progress, more work needs to be done to educate people across the globe about the pathology of the disease, its causes, and mechanisms. Studies show that patients with epilepsy living in communities that understand the pathology and cause of seizures are generally more successful in social and educational environments. In this book, beyond current treatments that may include anti-epileptic drugs (also called anti-seizure medications), neurosurgery, neurostimulation, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes, I will discuss the recent modalities of gene therapy, immunotherapy, and neutrophil therapy, and will outline more advanced research options, some of which remain to be pursued. I will also posit that the root cause of epilepsy is an autoimmune disease that had gone rogue, damaging the brain's normal functions and leading to neurodegenerative diseases, including epilepsy. Under this theory, the seizures are but the symptoms of that disease. Brain function being highly non-linear, it is not too surprising that anti-seizure/anti-epileptic drugs that assume a linear brain function have been only partly successful. In all these endeavors, the well-being of the patient is foremost, and that is why I will also include suggestions, recommendations, and available supporting resources for patients and their caregivers, how they can live and cope with their epilepsy, and what they can do about it.