The history of epilepsy is intermingled with the history of human existence; the first reports on epilepsy can be traced back to the Assyrian texts,
almost 2,000 B.C.
[1].
How long has society known about epilepsy?
We learn that epilepsy has been known for
at least 3000 years
. Basic concepts surrounding epilepsy in ancient Indian medicine were refined and developed during the Vedic period of 4500–1500 bc.
Who was the first person diagnosed with epilepsy?
The Greek philosopher Hippocrates
(460-377 BC) was the first person to think that epilepsy starts in the brain. Anyone can have a seizure if the circumstances are right, but most people do not have seizures under ‘normal conditions’.
What has epilepsy historically been associated with?
Epilepsy is a disease historically associated with
evil spirits and mystery
, and still to this day often carries social stigmas [2].
How was epilepsy treated in the 1950s?
Phenobarbital
was established, at least by the early 1950s, as first-line treatment in the treatment of neonatal seizures, in febrile seizures, and in status epilepticus, and remains the leading therapy in all these situations. It is also extensively used today for routine chronic therapy.
Does epilepsy go away with age?
Some people require lifelong treatment to control seizures, but for others,
the seizures eventually go away
. Some children with epilepsy may outgrow the condition with age.
Does epilepsy get worse with age?
Epilepsy can develop at any age
. Early childhood and older adulthood tend to be the most common life stages. The outlook tends to be better for people who develop epilepsy as children — there’s a chance they might outgrow it as they age.
What is the rarest form of epilepsy?
Dravet syndrome
is a rare, catastrophic, lifelong form of epilepsy that begins in the first year of life with frequent and/or prolonged seizures. Previously known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI) 80% of people have a mutation in their SCN1A gene.
Are you born with epilepsy or does it develop?
Epilepsy and
seizures can develop in any person at any age
. 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime. Factors such as other health conditions, age, and race may make developing epilepsy and seizures more likely.
Is exercise good for epilepsy?
Exercise has important benefits for people with epilepsy and
can contribute to improved seizure control
. Physical exercise rarely triggers seizures. Take all necessary safety precautions while exercising. Anti-epileptic drugs can affect sporting performance.
Can epilepsy go away?
While many forms of epilepsy require lifelong treatment to control the seizures,
for some people the seizures eventually go away
. The odds of becoming seizure-free are not as good for adults or for children with severe epilepsy syndromes, but it is possible that seizures may decrease or even stop over time.
Is epilepsy a disability?
Medically Qualifying for Disability Benefits Due to Epilepsy
Epilepsy is one of the conditions listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book, which means that if you meet the requirements in the Blue Book listing for epilepsy you may be able to get disability benefits.
What was the first drug used to treat seizures?
1861 –
Bromides
– The first medication used to provide control for seizures; however, severe side effects occurred. The bromides extracted a heavy cost in terms of toxicity. 1912 – Phenobarbital – This medication was as effective as bromides, however easier to administer and less toxic.
What did Dr John H Jackson create?
John Hughlings Jackson created
the conceptual framework for clinical neurophysiology
, the discipline that underlies diagnostic neurology. He began by establishing a consistent scientific method based on the systematic analysis of anatomy, pathology and physiology.
What percentage of epilepsy is genetic?
About 30 to 40 percent
of epilepsy is caused by genetic predisposition. First-degree relatives of people with inherited epilepsy have a two- to four-fold increased risk for epilepsy.
When did epileptics get married?
In the United States, for instance, people with epilepsy were forbidden to marry in 17 states, until
1956
(5). The last state to repeal this law did so only in 1980. In 1956, 18 states provided for the sterilisation, on eugenic grounds, of people with epilepsy.
