The first line of treatment for epilepsy in most cases is medication. Up to 70% of people with epilepsy can get seizure control with antiseizure medication.
For people who do not gain seizure control despite trying different medications, there are other treatment options available.
With regular medication and a sensible lifestyle there is a 70% chance of gaining seizure control.
Epilepsy surgery can offer some a chance to be seizure free or significantly lessen the number of seizures they are having. Only certain types of epilepsy are suitable for this treatment.
VNS uses a pacemaker-like device to periodically stimulate the left vagus nerve in the neck to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.
If you already have a VNS and wish to purchase a magnet, then click here
Dietary Therapies – Ketogenic and Modified Atkins Diet
The ketogenic diet was developed for controlling seizures, particularly in children with poorly controlled epilepsy. The modified Atkins diet is a less restrictive diet that also seems to help with seizure control in adults and children.
Many people are now using alternative or complementary therapies in some way – to improve their health, combat illness and even prolong their life. Lifestyle changes can also help with seizure control.
DBS uses a pacemaker-like device connected to electrodes implanted in the brain. This sends a pulse stimulus to help manage seizures. This treatment is not yet available in Australia.
