Other treatments for epilepsy

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Surgery to remove a cause of seizures in the brain is an option in a small number of cases. It may be considered when medication fails to prevent seizures. It is only possible for certain causes in certain areas of the brain. Therefore, only a small number of people are suitable for surgery. Also, there is risk involved in brain surgery. However, techniques continue to improve and surgery may become an option for more and more people in the future.
Vagal nerve stimulation is an option for some people.
The ketogenic diet, a diet that needs to be supervised by an experienced dietician, is useful for some children and adults with particular types of epilepsy.
Complementary therapies such as aromatherapy may help with relaxation and relieve stress, but have no proven effect on preventing seizures.

What is the outlook (prognosis) for people with epilepsy?

The success in preventing seizures by medication varies depending on the type of epilepsy. For example, if no underlying cause can be found for your seizures (idiopathic epilepsy), you have a good chance that medication can fully control your seizures. Seizures caused by some underlying brain problems may be more difficult to control.

The overall outlook is better than many people realise. The following figures are based on studies of people with epilepsy which looked back over a five year period. These figures are based on grouping people with all types of epilepsy together which gives an overall picture.