Epilepsy

Epilepsy, or seizure disorder, is widespread, affecting more than 350,000 in the U.K. and an estimated three million approximately in the U.S. While anti-epileptic drugs have a major role in preventing seizure activity, they may not be totally effective in achieving control, and there is a strong burgeoning interest in lifestyle measures and complementary therapies which may help. This book is intended to be a trusted source to help people with epilepsy make sense of the treatment choices, given that epilepsy is not a single condition and some treatments may work for some but not other forms of the condition. Each chapter includes information about the treatment, evidence, whether it will work for your type of epilepsy, and practical considerations. Topics include: What is epilepsy? – Traditional medical treatments; why complementary treatments; the importance of evidence; a word on the placebo effect Retraining the brain – neurofeedback; autogenic training; aromatherapy; hypnosis Diet and lifestyle – diet; exercise; coping with stress; relaxation therapies – massage, meditation and yoga Complementary medicines – homeopathy; herbal remedies; Chinese medicine; Ayurveda Complementary therapies – acupuncture; oxygen therapies; light therapy; manipulation therapies Creative therapies – Art, music and drama; pet therapy.