Epileptic seizures: beware of brain damage

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Extract from the article: A neurological disease characterised by abnormally high excitation of brain cells, epilepsy is a particularly violent phenomenon, leading to intense mobilisation of all the patient's muscles, leaving them physically tired. Professor Christian Napon,

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A neurological disease characterised by abnormally high excitation of brain cells, epilepsy is a particularly violent phenomenon, leading to intense mobilisation of all the patient's muscles, leaving them physically tired. Professor Christian Napon, Head of the Neurology Department at the Bogodogo University Hospital (Burkina Faso) and a specialist in neurology, shares his expertise on this pathology, which affects the lives of many people.

In Togo, according to the latest WHO data published in 2020, deaths from epilepsy totalled 210, or 0.42% of all deaths. Epileptic seizures occur suddenly and can take different forms. According to Professor Christian Napon, "they can be motor, resulting in muscular convulsions, or sensory, with abnormal sensations such as visions, auditory hallucinations or particular tastes in the mouth. Seizures can also be vegetative, resulting in physiological responses such as sweating or fluctuations in blood pressure, or psychic, manifested by abrupt behaviour resembling madness. During the seizure, brain activity is disrupted, and the patient may be confused after the episode. Respiratory complications may also be observed, with life-threatening consequences if the seizures are repeated without returning to consciousness".

Epilepsy, says the specialist, can have different origins. Genetic causes are common, although they are not always directly inherited."Structural brain lesions, such as congenital malformations or cranial trauma, can also trigger seizures.In addition, infections such as encephalitis can be triggering factors".

Once a seizure has started, "it cannot be stopped.However, it is important to prevent the patient from injuring himself by protecting him from anything that could cause him damage. After the attack, it is advisable to place the patient on his or her side. The use of cannulas in the mouth to prevent the patient from biting his tongue is no longer recommended because of the risk of obstructing the respiratory tract," explains the neurologist.

As for its effects, Professor Napon pointed out that repeated epileptic seizures can lead to brain damage. After a first seizure, the patient may be confused because of brain damage. Psychosocial repercussions such as stigmatisation, marginalisation and rejection can also affect the quality of life of people with epilepsy.

William O.