At Chicago Neurological Services, we specialize in providing expert care and advanced treatment for epilepsy and seizures. Whether you or a loved one are newly diagnosed or seeking better management of existing seizures, Dr. Lenny Cohen, a board certified neurologist is committed to helping you achieve greater control over your condition. We offer personalized, cutting-edge care that focuses on improving your quality of life while reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.
What is Epilepsy and Seizures?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unprovoked seizures. A seizure occurs when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to a range of symptoms such as convulsions, altered consciousness, or unusual sensations. Epilepsy can affect anyone, regardless of age, and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including genetic conditions, brain injuries, infections, and more.
Common types of seizures include:
- Focal Seizures: Affecting only one area of the brain, these seizures can cause localized muscle spasms or changes in sensation.
- Generalized Seizures: Affecting the entire brain, these seizures can cause loss of consciousness, convulsions, and more widespread physical effects.
- Absence Seizures: Brief lapses in consciousness, often mistaken for daydreaming, which can occur in children and adolescents.
- Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Also known as grand mal seizures, these involve loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions.
At Chicago Neurological Services, our team works closely with you to diagnose the type of epilepsy or seizure disorder you have, so we can recommend the most effective treatment options.
Symptoms of Epilepsy and Seizures
The symptoms of seizures can vary widely depending on the type of seizure and the area of the brain affected. Common symptoms include:
- Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Staring episodes or blanking out
- Muscle stiffness or jerking movements
- Aura or warning signs, such as unusual smells, tastes, or sensations
- Memory loss or confusion post-seizure
If you or someone you know is experiencing seizures, it’s essential to seek medical care right away to ensure a proper diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.
Why Choose Chicago Neurological Services?
At Chicago Neurological Services, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services and personalized treatment plans for epilepsy and seizures. Our neurologist is highly experienced in managing various types of seizure disorders, from childhood epilepsy to adult-onset seizures. We use the latest advancements in medical technology to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatment strategies.
Treatment Options for Epilepsy and Seizures
The treatment of epilepsy and seizures is highly individualized, as different types of seizures respond to different treatments. At Chicago Neurological Services, we offer the following treatment options:
- Medications: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the cornerstone of seizure treatment. Our specialists will work with you to find the right medication and dosage to control your seizures with minimal side effects.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): For patients who don’t respond well to medications, VNS therapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures by stimulating the vagus nerve.
- Dietary Therapies: The ketogenic diet or modified Atkins diet may be recommended for some patients, particularly children, as a way to reduce seizures by altering metabolism.
- Surgical Options: In cases where medications and other treatments aren’t effective, we may consider surgical options, such as removing the area of the brain causing seizures or implanting a responsive neurostimulation (RNS) system. In these cases, Lenny Cohen, MD is affiliated with Rush Health System and may refer to the Rush Epilepsy Center.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Our team offers guidance on managing triggers, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, stress management, and other lifestyle modifications that can help reduce seizure activity.
- Behavioral Therapy: In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to help you cope with the emotional and psychological impact of epilepsy.
Why Trust Chicago Neurological Services?
- Expert Neurologist: Dr. Lenny Cohen is a board certified Neurologist with extensive experience in treating epilepsy and seizures.
- Personalized Care: We understand that every patient’s experience with epilepsy is unique. Our treatment plans are tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Tools: We use the latest diagnostic technology, including EEG (electroencephalogram), MRI, and CT scans, to accurately diagnose the type of seizures or epilepsy you have.
- Cutting-Edge Treatments: From advanced medication management to surgical interventions, we offer the most effective and up-to-date treatments available for seizure control.
- Patient-Centered Approach: At Chicago Neurological Services, we prioritize your well-being. We work closely with you and your family to ensure the best possible outcomes in managing your condition.
Take Control of Your Seizure Disorder
If you or a loved one is living with epilepsy or experiencing seizures, don’t wait to get the care you need. At Chicago Neurological Services, we are here to help you gain control over your condition and improve your quality of life. Our expert neurologist is committed to offering you the most advanced, compassionate care.