Who Discovered Epilepsy?

Epilepsy affects more than 18 million people in the United States. It is a disability that negatively affects many aspects of their lives, and living with this disability can be frustrating and embarrassing. Had it not been for the work of many great neurologists, this disability might never have been understood, nor would great strides have been made in its treatment.

History

• Epilepsy is the oldest-known brain disorder, dating back to biblical times. However, in these early ages, people did not understand epilepsy or its causes, and those inflicted were often deemed possessed. It wasn't until the work of Dr. John Hughlings Jackson in 1870 that anyone understood what epilepsy was or why seizures occurred. Dr. Jackson is best remembered for discovering why epileptic seizures take place, where they start and the many forms they can take on. He was the first person to state that abnormal mental conditions could result from a structural problem in the brain, specifically in the cerebral cortex where seizures often take place. In 1892, he, along with two of his colleagues, founded the National Society for the Employment of Epileptics, now known as The National Society for Epilepsy. It was Dr. Jackson's work in neurological disorders that paved the way for the progress modern-day doctors have made in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy.

Significance

• Had Dr. Jackson never explored the world of epilepsy, those who suffer from it may still be stereotyped as being controlled by demons. His research and writings on the subject have aided science with a means of diagnosing epilepsy and developing medications to help prevent and treat seizure disorders. Dr. Jackson's work has helped save the lives of many epileptics; he was inspired to do so after having lost his own wife to an epileptic convulsion. He was a pioneer in this field of medicine and his work has left a lasting impact in the world of neurology.

Features

• Dr. Jackson's research showed that seizures usually occur in the frontal lobe of the brain called the cerebral cortex. He documented that an epileptic seizure was not a disease, but rather a symptom. As he delved deeper into his studies, he discovered that the abnormal electrical impulses taking place in the frontal lobe moved through the body, causing the spasms and jerking motions most often identified with seizures. He also discovered that there were different types of epilepsy, all with their own symptoms and treatments. A grand mal seizure is the most severe type of seizure, affecting the entire body. Those who experience grand mal seizures will lose consciousness, causing them to collapse to the ground. A stiffening of the body will occur and then an uncontrollable, violent jerking will take place. Those who suffer from myoclonic seizures will experience a series of sporadic jerks. In some instances, the jerking will become violent, and they will drop or throw an object they are holding. Abscence seizures will result in a momentary lapse of consciousness and may present with only a few, if any, symptoms. The epileptic may not be aware that this has occurred. During the length of this seizure, the epileptic will stare blankly into space.

Considerations

• There are many variables involved that contribute to an epileptic having a seizure. Some seizures occur because of quick flashes of light, while others experience them because they are fatigued or overly stressed. Some people experience what is known as an aura, a warning of sorts that indicates a seizure is about to take place. Not everyone experiences an aura though, in which case the onset is sudden and unexpected. If you are near an epileptic as he begins to seize, the best thing you can do for him is to lower him slowly to the ground in an area where he will not be injured. Try to place something under his head, and wait for the episode to end. Once the seizure has ended, lay him on his sides to recover. It may take a few minutes to come around, and you need to stay with him until he is alert again. If you are an epileptic, be sure to notify those you are in frequent contact with and advise them what to do in case you ever experience a seizure while you are with them.

Warning

• There are many things that should not be done while a person is experiencing a seizure, as it can only make the episode worse or cause injury to both you and him. Never place anything in the epileptic's mouth. Years ago it was thought that placing an object on the tongue would prevent him from swallowing it. It is impossible to swallow your tongue and when an object is placed in the mouth, it can result in an injury to you and could possibly break the jaw of the epileptic. It is also important not to give him any food or drink fully recovered, to prevent choking. Never rush him out of the recovery period. Let him come around on his own and then slowly begin to ask him questions, which will help him realize where he is. If you are an epileptic, be sure to avoid any stimuli or environments that could trigger your seizures. Make sure you educate yourself, as well, once you have been diagnosed by your neurologist. The more you know about your particular condition, the safer you will be.