Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by seizures caused by recurrent electrical activity disorders in the brain. Today, Epilepsy Treatment represents one of the most complex and at the same time most promising areas of neurological sciences. With proper diagnosis, personalized medication selection, surgical interventions, diet, and lifestyle changes, seizures can be largely controlled. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, who has conducted pioneering studies in this field, emphasizes the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in managing epilepsy with modern methods.
Electrical Imbalance in the Brain
Epilepsy occurs when communication between nerve cells in the brain becomes abnormally accelerated or unsynchronized. This leads to seizures accompanied by short-term loss of consciousness, muscle contractions, and emotional or perceptual disturbances. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı describes epilepsy as “a sudden and temporary storm of brain functions.”
The causes of epilepsy vary from person to person. Congenital brain anomalies, head trauma, brain tumors, infections, genetic factors, and vascular occlusions are among the most common causes. However, in about half of the cases, no underlying cause can be identified. This condition is known as “idiopathic epilepsy.”
Epilepsy can occur at any age, but it is most common in childhood and in older adults. In elderly individuals, it often occurs after a stroke, while in young adults, genetic predisposition and trauma are common factors. The incidence is similar in men and women.
Accurate Diagnosis
The success of Epilepsy Treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. EEG (electroencephalography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and neurological examination findings are evaluated together. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that “misdiagnosis of epilepsy can lead to incorrect treatment.” Therefore, not every seizure is epilepsy; psychogenic seizures or syncope must be considered in differential diagnosis.
Medication is the cornerstone of Epilepsy Treatment. The appropriate antiepileptic drug is selected based on the type of seizure and the individual characteristics of the patient.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that medication is “a personalized process,” as each individual responds differently and dosage adjustments must be made under expert supervision.
In approximately 30% of patients, complete control cannot be achieved with medication alone. In such cases, drug combinations, dietary therapies, or surgical options are evaluated. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı stresses that early evaluation in advanced centers is vital in drug-resistant epilepsy.
Purpose of Surgical Treatment
In drug-resistant epilepsy, the seizure focus in the brain can be identified and removed. This can significantly control seizures. In patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, surgical success rates can reach up to 70%.
Surgical Techniques
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that “video-EEG monitoring, advanced imaging, and neuropsychological tests must be evaluated together” in surgical planning. This increases both the safety and effectiveness of surgery.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
A small device placed in the neck sends regular signals to the vagus nerve. This method can reduce seizure frequency and improve quality of life.
Electrodes placed in the anterior thalamic nucleus provide electrical stimulation to the brain. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that this method yields promising results in drug-resistant generalized epilepsy.
RNS is a new-generation therapy that automatically delivers counter-stimulation at the onset of a seizure, preventing its progression.
Ketogenic Diet
This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet suppresses seizures by producing ketone bodies in the brain. It is especially effective in resistant epilepsy in children.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that the ketogenic diet must always be implemented “under the supervision of a physician and dietitian.”
Developed as an alternative to the ketogenic diet, it is easier to apply and may be effective in some adult patients. The effect of the diet is usually evaluated within a few months.
All Diagnosed Patients
A treatment plan must be created for every patient diagnosed with epilepsy. However, the approach varies depending on seizure frequency, type, age, occupation, and overall health.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that “every epilepsy patient’s treatment steps must be individualized.”
In patients who do not respond to medication, surgical or neuromodulation options should be considered. In addition, psychiatric support and lifestyle adjustments are very important in some cases.
Side Effects of Medications
Although antiepileptic medications are generally safe, side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, weight changes, and skin rashes may occur.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı highlights the importance of regular blood tests to monitor potential changes in liver and blood values due to medication.
Surgical interventions may cause infection, mild memory problems, or temporary emotional changes. However, modern techniques significantly reduce these risks.
Long-term treatment processes may lead to anxiety or depression in some patients. Therefore, psychological support should be considered part of the treatment.
Costs Vary by Treatment Type
The cost of Epilepsy Treatment varies depending on the type of medication used, whether surgery is needed, the technological methods applied, and the patient’s personal treatment plan.
In Turkey, annual costs for patients treated with medication vary according to drug type, while surgical procedures or neuromodulation devices may be more expensive.
Sleep and Stress Management
Insufficient sleep increases seizure risk. Regular sleep and stress-reducing activities (yoga, breathing exercises) are recommended.
Light exercise may reduce seizure frequency. However, caution is needed in high-risk activities such as water sports or mountaineering.
Sugary and processed foods should be reduced, and balanced nutrition should be emphasized. Excessive caffeine and alcohol can increase seizure risk.
Genetic and Stem Cell Research
Recent genetic tests have enabled more accurate classification of epilepsy subtypes.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that medication selection based on genetic profiles will form the foundation of personalized treatment in the future.
Artificial intelligence–supported EEG analysis may allow seizures to be predicted in advance. Such systems represent a revolutionary development for early intervention and a safer life in Epilepsy Treatment.
Epilepsy Treatment is a long-term process aimed not only at suppressing seizures but also at improving the individual’s quality of life. When modern neurology, surgery, dietary therapy, and psychological support are combined, success rates are remarkably high.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, who has made major contributions in this field, emphasizes that every patient has a unique treatment map, and when this map is drawn correctly, epilepsy can be brought under control.
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