Refractory Partial Seizures
What is Refractory Partial Seizure?
Refractory Partial Seizures are seizures that do not respond to existing seizure medications. These seizures originate in one (focal) area of the brain, and involve a variety of symptoms from mild changes in behavior or sensation to full motor activity. Refractory Partial Seizures are seen in 10-30% of people with epilepsy. It is important to speak with your Doctor about any seizure activity and to make sure you are properly diagnosed and treated correctly.
Symptoms of Refractory Partial Seizures
The symptoms of Refractory Partial Seizures vary depending on where in the brain the seizure is occurring. Common symptoms include:
- Stumbling or brief loss of balance
- Jerking and shaking movements
- Changes in behavior or emotion
- Hallucinations
- Numbness or tingling
- Unresponsiveness
- Slurring of speech
- Changes in vision or hearing
Treatment for Refractory Partial Seizures
If Refractory Partial Seizures don't respond to medication, the doctor may suggest other treatments. Some of these treatments include:
- Surgery – Surgery may remove the area of the brain that is causing the seizure.
- Diet – The ketogenic diet is becoming increasingly popular, and scientists are researching its effects on people with epilepsy. The diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, and it has been shown to reduce seizures in some cases.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation – This treatment is a surgically implanted device that sends electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in order to reduce seizure activity.
- Deep brain stimulation – This type of surgery uses electrodes to stimulate certain areas of the brain to reduce seizure activity.
It is important to work with your doctor to decide on the best treatment plan for you. Your doctor may want to modify the treatment plan, depending on your individual needs.
