What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. It leads to abnormal brain activities and is characterized by periods of abnormal behavior, seizures, loss of awareness, and unusual sensations. Anyone of all ages, ethnic groups, and races may develop epilepsy. Keep in mind that experiencing seizures does not necessarily mean you have epilepsy. Many treatment options are available to help control seizures and other symptoms. In children, epilepsy would outgrow the condition when they age. [1]
What Is Intractable or Drug-Resistant Epilepsy?
Antiepilepsy drugs are typically prescribed by doctors to treat epilepsy. However, in some people, these medications cannot improve the frequency or severity their seizures. This condition is also known as intractable or drug-resistant epilepsy. It is usually diagnosed after you have taken at least two antiepilepsy drugs without any results. Therefore, you may have to change medications frequently during the course of treatment. In general, intractable epilepsy may occur in certain ways:
– Medications for treating epilepsy do not work
– Serious side effects of antiepilepsy drugs make it challenging to continue treatment
– Existing drugs for treating epilepsy stop working [2]
