Epileptologist
Epileptologist: consultations and examinations at NeiroMed clinic. Highly qualified epileptologist in Riga at NeiroMed Clinic, 8b Gunara Astras Street.
Epileptologist - assistant on the way to life without seizures
Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological diseases. Although treatable, there are still myths, prejudices and fears around it. Epileptologist – a neurologist specialising in epilepsy – is a doctor who helps a patient understand, accept and manage the disease to live a full life.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease that manifests itself in repeated seizures resulting from excessive brain electrical activity. They can present in different ways – with seizures, loss of consciousness, twitching of the eyes or limbs, confusion or temporary inability to respond.
The disease can be caused by:
- hereditary or acquired brain structure damage (injury, stroke, tumour)
- neuroinfection (meningitis, encephalitis)
- genetic factors,
- metabolic or autoimmune disorders.
Epilepsy can affect everyone, both children and adults, at any age.
What does an epileptologist do?
Epileptologist:
- specify the diagnosis based on a history, clinical situation and results of examinations,
- selects most appropriate anticonvulsion therapy,
- adapts treatment to individual needs, considering age, gender, co-morbidity, lifestyle,
- performs and interprets EEG electroencephalogram),
- refers, if necessary, to magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography (CT) or long-term video-EEG monitoring,
- recommends additional treatments such as ketogenic diet, etc.
Importance and preparation of the visit
For an epileptologist to provide the most effective help, the role of the patient is crucial:
- describe seizures – how often they occur, how they start, how long they last, what happens after them,
- engage relatives who have been present during seizures – their observations are very important,
- draw up a list of daily medicinal products and previous examinations,
- write down any questions you want to ask your doctor during your visit.
Treatment objective – a seizure-free life
Around 70 per cent of people with epilepsy can achieve complete seizure control with properly selected therapy. The key is:
- regular use of medicinal products as instructed by the physician,
- doctor-patient cooperation: open communication and regular controls,
- accurate diagnosis that allows you to choose the most effective treatment.
Social stigma and psychological help
Epilepsy is not a mental illness. However, public incomprehension and prejudice lead to:
- social isolation,
- depression and anxiety,
- a decline in self-esteem.
Therefore, an epileptologist may also recommend:
- psychological support,
- support groups such as epilepsy society activities.
It is important to educate not only patients but also family, employers, teachers to ensure understanding and an inclusive environment.
Epileptologist - a guide to independent life
With modern possibilities, epilepsy can be controlled. Successful treatment means:
- the possibility of living without seizures,
- the opportunity to learn, work and build a family,
- a safe and quality life.
At our clinic, an epileptologist (Dr. Normunds Suna, Dr. Dace Tjurina):
- listen and understand,
- diagnoses,
- adapt the treatment individually,
- carry out control visits and monitor the effectiveness of therapy.
Epileptologist: consultations and examinations at NeiroMed clinic
Highly qualified epileptologist in Riga at NeiroMed Clinic, 8b Gunara Astras Street