Epilepsy Treatment in Palamu
Comprehensive epilepsy diagnosis and management by Dr. Yuvraj Lahre, DM Neurology (AIIMS), with on-site EEG facilities at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care, Palamu.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder marked by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure happens when there is a sudden, abnormal surge of electrical activity in the brain, which can alter a person's consciousness, movements, or sensations. It affects people of all ages. While some cases are linked to genetics, head trauma, or brain infections, many cases have no identifiable cause. With expert diagnosis and the right medication plan, the vast majority of epilepsy patients can lead normal, active, and seizure-free lives.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
- •Repeated seizures or convulsions
- •Brief periods of staring into space or temporary confusion (absence seizures)
- •Sudden, uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- •Complete loss of consciousness or awareness
- •Unusual psychic symptoms such as sudden fear, anxiety, or a feeling of déjà vu
- •Odd sensory experiences like strange tastes, smells, or visual changes
- •Extreme fatigue, confusion, or headaches following a seizure
Clinical Observations at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care
Dr. Yuvraj Lahre at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care sees a disproportionate number of adult-onset epilepsy cases in Jharkhand caused by neurocysticercosis — tapeworm larvae in the brain — linked to free-range pig farming and undercooked pork consumption in rural households across Palamu, Gumla, and Simdega districts.
Standard medical literature states:
Standard medical literature identifies epilepsy causes as genetic, structural brain abnormalities, head trauma, and infections. Neurocysticercosis is acknowledged as a cause in endemic regions but is often underemphasised in global treatment guidelines.
Before starting long-term anti-epileptic drugs, we routinely order a contrast MRI brain and serum cysticercal serology for patients from rural Jharkhand. Treating the underlying neurocysticercosis often resolves seizures without lifelong medication.
— Dr. Yuvraj Lahre
Causes & Risk Factors
- •Genetic predisposition or family history of seizures
- •Traumatic brain injuries or severe head trauma
- •Stroke (a common cause of new-onset epilepsy in older adults)
- •Infections of the brain such as meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis
- •Prenatal injury due to infection, poor oxygen supply, or malnutrition
- •Developmental conditions like autism or neurofibromatosis
- •Brain tumors or structural abnormalities
- •In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown (idiopathic epilepsy)
Diagnostic Tests
EEG (Electroencephalogram)
The primary test for epilepsy — records brain's electrical activity to detect seizure-related abnormalities.
MRI Brain
High-resolution brain imaging to identify structural causes of epilepsy such as scars, tumors, or developmental abnormalities.
CT Scan
Quick brain imaging often used in emergency settings after a first seizure to rule out acute bleeding or structural problems.
Treatment Approach
Dr. Yuvraj Lahre offers specialized, evidence-based epilepsy care at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective management:
- Targeted Anti-Seizure Medication (ASM)
- Prescribing the most effective and tolerable medications based on the specific seizure type, patient age, and lifestyle to achieve seizure freedom with minimal side effects.
- Trigger Identification
- Working closely with patients to identify and avoid factors that provoke seizures, such as lack of sleep, high stress, missed medication doses, or excessive alcohol.
- Safety & Lifestyle Counseling
- Providing essential guidance on daily living, including driving safety, workplace precautions, and pregnancy planning for women with epilepsy.
- Continuous Monitoring
- Routine follow-ups and EEG monitoring at our Medininagar clinic to evaluate treatment efficacy and adjust dosages as needed.
When to See a Doctor
- !After experiencing a first seizure — even if it was brief
- !If you have recurrent episodes of confusion, staring, or unusual behavior
- !If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes (medical emergency)
- !If seizures are becoming more frequent or severe despite treatment
- !If you experience new or worsening medication side effects
- !Before planning a pregnancy if you have epilepsy
- !If you have episodes of unexplained falls or loss of awareness
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best epilepsy doctor in Palamu?
Dr. Yuvraj Lahre at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care is a highly qualified neurologist (DM Neurology, AIIMS Bhubaneswar) who specializes in epilepsy diagnosis and management. He offers expert seizure evaluation with on-site EEG and personalized medication plans.
Can epilepsy be cured completely?
With proper treatment, approximately 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with medication. Some may eventually be able to stop medication under medical supervision. Even for those with drug-resistant epilepsy, advanced treatments can significantly reduce seizure frequency and improve quality of life.
What should I do when someone has a seizure?
Stay calm. Protect the person from injury by clearing dangerous objects. Turn them on their side. Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Time the seizure. If it lasts more than 5 minutes, or if the person doesn't regain consciousness, call emergency services. After the seizure, stay with them and offer reassurance.
Is EEG test available at Palamu Neuro & Eye Care?
Yes, Palamu Neuro & Eye Care has on-site EEG (electroencephalogram) facilities for the diagnosis and monitoring of epilepsy and seizure disorders. EEG is a painless, non-invasive test that records the brain's electrical activity.