Epilepsy can develop at any age. Early childhood and older adulthood tend to be the most common life stages. The outlook tends to be better for people who develop epilepsy as children — theres a chance they might outgrow it as they age. Developing epilepsy before the age of 12 increases this positive outcome.

Do seizures get worse as you get older?

The incidence of any type of seizure increases substantially over the age of 60, commonly due to other neurological conditions such as dementia or stroke.

Does epilepsy always worsen?

There is often no warning and no clear reason why the seizures happen. If epilepsy is not treated, seizures may occur throughout a persons life. Seizures can become more severe and happen more often over time.

Do seizures shorten your life?

Epilepsy can shorten life, but most of the time it does not. Be aware of risks and take sensible precautions, but do not let the risks put you into a state of constant worry. Consult with your doctor for specific information about your risk factors for injury due to seizures.

What is the best medication for seizures?

Many medications are used in the treatment of epilepsy and seizures, including:Carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol, others)Phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)Valproic acid (Depakene)Oxcarbazepine (Oxtellar, Trileptal)Lamotrigine (Lamictal)Gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin)Topiramate (Topamax)Phenobarbital.More items •Feb 24, 2021

Does drinking water help epilepsy?

Drinking water helps us to function and concentrate, and reduces the risk of seizures triggered by dehydration.

What drinks are good for epilepsy?

Generally speaking, most people with epilepsy should be OK to drink coffee, tea, soda and other caffeinated drinks in small quantities without any serious risk of increasing the number of seizures they have.

Can you still have a seizure while on medication?

Unfortunately, at least 1 in 3 patients complain they are still having seizures while on medication. In these cases, the patient is considered to have drug-resistant seizures or drug-resistant epilepsy, also known as refractory epilepsy. The cause of epilepsy and seizures is often unknown.

Why Keppra is bad for you?

As with other antiepileptics, Keppra may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. Monitor for worsening depression or mood changes. Keppra may also cause behavioral problems such as aggression, anxiety, irritability, and nervousness; advise people taking Keppra to monitor their mood.

Is chocolate good for epilepsy?

Food enrichment with cocoa-based dark chocolate increases hippocampal seizure-like population spike bursting in a low-Mg2+ model of epilepsy.