Other treatments for epilepsy continued

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About 5 in 10 people with epilepsy will have no seizures at all over a five year period. Many of these people will be taking medication to stop seizures. Some will have stopped treatment having had two or more years without a seizure whilst taking medication.
About 3 in 10 people with epilepsy will have some seizures in this five year period, but far fewer than if they had not taken medication.
So, in total, with medication, about 8 in 10 people with epilepsy are 'well controlled' with either no, or few, seizures.
The remaining 2 in 10 people experience seizures, despite medication.
A small number of people with epilepsy have sudden unexplained death. The exact cause of this is unknown, but may be related to a change in the breathing pattern or to abnormal heart rhythms during a seizure. However, this is rare and the vast majority of people with epilepsy fully recover following each seizure.

A trial without medication may be an option if you have not had any seizures over 2-3 years. If a decision to stop treatment is made, a gradual reduction of the dose of medication is usually advised over several months. Never stop taking medication without discussing with a doctor.

The above section on outlooks (prognosis) relates just to seizures. Some underlying brain conditions which cause seizures may cause additional problems.

Further information

Most people with epilepsy live full and active lives, but may have to accept some changes to their lifestyle. For example, you must not drive for a period laid down by law. Below are further sources of information, help, and support on all aspects of epilepsy.

Epilepsy Action New Anstey House, Gateway Drive, Leeds, LS19 7XY Helpline: 0808 800 50 50 Web: www.epilepsy.org.uk

National Society For Epilepsy Chesham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Gerrards Cross, Bucks, SL9 0RJ Helpline: 01494 601 400 Web: www.epilepsynse.org.uk

Epilepsy Scotland 48 Govan Road, Glasgow, Scotland, G51 1JL Helpline: 0808 800 2 200 Web: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk

Epilepsy Wales PO Box 4168, Cardiff, CF14 0WZ Helpline: 0845 7413774 Web: www.epilepsy-wales.co.uk

By Anna Penniceard