All about Epilepsy and Down's syndrome

by Vivek Choudhary Nice life

Epilepsy has been deemed as a chronic neurological disorder that is characterized by recurrent seizures that occur due to alterations in the brain. A seizure or a sudden rush of electrical impulse can cause vigorous shaking. It is difficult to perceive it among people and resultantly, determining the underlying cause of the disease becomes difficult.

Genetic factors, infectious diseases (AIDS, Meningitis), prenatal injury, brain injury are a few evident causes that are verified by doctors across the world. You can consult any top neurosurgeon in Chandigarh to garner further information regarding the same.

On the other hand, Down’s syndrome is a genetic disorder which is characterized by the presence of an additional chromosome, i.e. 47 chromosomes instead of 46. Down’s syndrome is also categorised as Trisomy 21. The additional chromosome causes changes in the development of the body and brain. With Down’s syndrome, children are at a much higher risk of developing leukaemia, heart and gastrointestinal problems, decay in mental activity as they grow up and Alzheimer’s disease. Symptoms include facial features that are distinctive such as small ears or mouth, short legs and arms, low muscle strength and loose joints. If somebody you know exhibits the aforementioned signs, schedule an appointment with the top hospital in Chandigarh immediately.

How are Epilepsy and Down’s associated?

Epilepsy is a common feature in Down’s syndrome that occurs either at a young age or during later years. Depending upon age, the forms of seizure vary. Children with Down’s syndrome are susceptible to short-lasting seizures or seizures that cause violent muscle contractions. Adults, on the other hand, are susceptible to simple partial seizures that affecteither one part of the body or complex partial seizures which affect multiple areas. Approximately half the adults afflicted with Down’s syndrome experience epilepsy and its symptoms. The condition can reflect reduced capability among individuals causing mental retardation.

Down’s syndrome infused with Epilepsy results in mental abnormalities among children. The E/I balance is disturbed. Consequently, an imbalance between the “excitation” and “inhibitory” pathways of the brain results in abnormal functioning. Abnormalities in the structure of the brain can lead to electrical overstimulation and contribute as a significant factor in causing this imbalance. Moreover, changes in dopamine or adrenaline levels can also alter the functioning of the brain cells.

Treatment induced among patients

Individuals diagnosed with Down’s syndrome and epilepsy are usually remedied with anti-convulsants which primarily prevents the brain cells from misfiring. To support the inhibitory pathways of the brain, the aforementioned medicine is necessary.

Doctors at a private hospital in Panchkula recommend the ketogenic diet. It is a dietary routine that involves high-fats and low carbohydrates. Such a diet can help in reducing the severity of seizures. In hospitals, this diet is followed after a brief period of fasting.

Although having Down’s syndrome does not guarantee that the person also has epilepsy. However, one should be familiar with the symptoms of Epilepsy in case they occur. It is very important to stay in touch with doctors in such cases and adhere to their advice.