Epilepsy happens as a result of irregular electrical brain activity. This irregular brain activity may cause seizures that can be likened to an “electrical storm” in the brain. Learn more about the condition on this page: https://chouneurosurgery.com/condition/epilepsy/.
There are several factors that may trigger epilepsy. However, key contributors include genetics, brain injuries, infections, or developmental disorders.
These disruptions may lead to abnormal neuron firing and cause seizures. The effects of seizures due to epilepsy aren’t the same and tend to vary widely.
From mild inconvenience to severe limitations, seizures can affect cognition, emotions, and physical coordination. In today’s piece, we will tell you the best doctor to see for epilepsy in Singapore and when to see the specialist.
Which Doctor is best for Epilepsy?
If you’re getting symptoms that you suspect could be due to epilepsy or have a loved one who is getting worrisome symptoms you may wonder, which doctor is best for epilepsy? Here’s something you may find helpful;
If you only need medication to manage epilepsy, general neurologists and primary care physicians are the right doctors to see for epilepsy. However, if you’re dealing with a complex case of epilepsy or have specific medical needs, you may want to see an epileptologist for specialized care.
Epileptologists are highly specialized neurologists who complete an additional one to two years of intensive training in epilepsy care. Essentially, this is what distinguishes them as experts in this field.
They possess comprehensive knowledge and experience in handling complex epilepsy cases. The patients who can hugely benefit from their services include those who are having to deal with uncontrolled seizures, experiencing adverse drug reactions, or seeking alternative therapeutic approaches.
So, Can Neurologist Treat Epilepsy?
Another common question that may be bugging you about epilepsy in Singapore is; can a neurologist treat epilepsy? Here’s a simple answer;
Yes, a neurologist can treat epilepsy. These specialists often have expertise in epilepsy and play a key role in the diagnosis, prescription, and initiation of treatment, predominantly medications. Neurologists continue to monitor and adjust treatments to achieve seizure control and provide ongoing reviews for patients.
And as a general rule of thumb, an urgent consultation with a specialist, typically a neurologist well-versed in epilepsy is recommended within two weeks following a seizure. This prompt evaluation cannot only help with establishing a diagnosis. It also presents you with the best chance to discuss suitable treatment options, depending on your unique needs.
When Should I See Doctor for Epilepsy?
There are several instances that may warrant for an appointment with a specialist like a neurologist for epilepsy in Singapore. Below are seven instances to see a doctor for epilepsy;
- If you’re having uncontrolled seizures despite having been on different medications
- If you’re pregnant or planning to conceive
- If you’re getting unwanted medication side effects
- To confirm epilepsy diagnosis
- If you’re dealing with other medical conditions that are coexisting with epilepsy
- If you get sudden changes in epilepsy patterns
- If you have problems adhering to the given medication
- Uncontrolled Seizures despite Medication Trials: There are chances or seizures persisting even after trying two or three different medications. If you notice something like this, it could be the time to consult a doctor for epilepsy in Singapore. Uncontrolled seizures might indicate the necessity for alternative treatments. They may also be suggestive of the need to adjust current medications, or maybe try additional therapies to achieve better seizure control.
- Pregnancy or Planning to Conceive: While epilepsy may not have a direct impact on your baby and you’re even likely to have a healthy pregnancy and bear a healthy baby, there could be concerns with the medications and seizures especially the tonic-clonic seizures. Some anti-seizure medications may affect the fetus and increase the risks of birth defects or complications. The seizures may increase your risks for trauma due to falls or burns which too may increase your risks of miscarriage, and premature labor, etc. That said, if you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy consult a specialist for epilepsy in Singapore for correct guidance.
- Managing Medication Side Effects: There is a small chance of you not being a good candidate for medications that may be prescribed for epilepsy. If this happens, you may get unwanted side effects of the medication. Experience of undesirable side effects from epilepsy medications requires medical attention as some side effects might affect your quality of life. In most cases, this is what makes it necessary to discuss alternatives or adjustments to the treatment plan to minimize these effects while effectively managing seizures.
- Confirmation of Epilepsy Diagnosis: If you’re are getting symptoms or a loved one is having symptoms that you suspect could be due to epilepsy, you may want to see a doctor who specializes in epilepsy in Singapore to confirm diagnosis. This is a good step as accurate diagnosis can help in the development of an appropriate treatment strategy. A good epilepsy specialist can help you tailor treatment to your specific condition to ensure proper management and care.
- Coexisting Medical Conditions: It is also possible to have other medical conditions with epilepsy. If there are other medical conditions that either impact or are affected by epilepsy, it is best to see a specialist for a tailored treatment plan. Certain medical conditions can complicate epilepsy management or might be influenced by seizure activity. This makes a comprehensive medical evaluation essential for holistic care.
- Sudden Changes in Seizure Patterns: If you or a loved one has been living with epilepsy, you probably, already understand the patterns. Any sudden alterations in seizure patterns, frequency, or intensity shouldn’t be ignored. Such changes might signal potential complications. They may also hint at underlying issues that require further investigation and adjustment in the treatment plan.
- Issues with Treatment Adherence: There are several factors that may make it a little difficult to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen. As missed medications may lead to more severe symptoms, difficulty in adhering to the prescribed treatment regimen shouldn’t be brushed aside. If you’re having any concerns with medications or a treatment plan, please inform your doctor. Depending on your unique needs, they may help you find suitable solutions to ensure effective seizure management.
Closing Thoughts
Your primary doctor can help with medications to manage epilepsy especially if you’re dealing with a mild condition. If your condition is serious though, a specialist care will be necessitated.
Don’t let epilepsy wreak havoc in you or a loved one’s life. Seek timely medical care for tailored and dedicated medical care. To learn more about your options for epilepsy treatment or schedule an appointment for thorough assessment and treatment, call or visit the specialists at Chou Neuroscience Clinic at;
Chou Neuroscience Clinic
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#08-06 Connexion
Singapore 217562
OR
6 Napier Road
#08-08 Gleneagles Medical Centre
Singapore 258499
+65 6694 7942
