Conversion Disorder

By:  Catherine Joachin What is conversion disorder? Conversion disorder, otherwise known as functional neurological disorder, is a psychiatric condition that impairs sensory and motor functioning (Cleveland Clinic, 2024). It features abnormal physical symptoms that are caused by psychological stress and which cannot be explained by a medical condition (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Symptoms and causes The […]

Insomnia and Epilepsy

By:  Catherine Joachin What is insomnia? Insomnia is a common sleep disorder defined by difficulties falling or staying asleep (Mayo Clinic, 2024). Insomnia affects both the quality and quantity of sleep, but it can also lead to medical or psychiatric complications (Mayo Clinic, 2024). Classification and symptoms Insomnia can be classified into two categories: acute […]

The WADA Test: A Brief Overview of an Essential Tool Used in Epilepsy Surgery

By:  Nazneen Khan The WADA Test: A Brief Overview of an Essential Tool Used in Epilepsy Surgery The WADA test is a preoperative medical procedure performed on epileptic patients. It assesses the memory and language abilities of the brain; thus, it is used as a tool before major brain surgery. This diagnostic tool is an […]

The Importance of Regular Gynecological Exams

By:  Aaliyah Ellison-McPeters What is a Gynecological Exam? A gynecological exam is often performed by gynecologists or other trained healthcare providerssuch as nurse-midwives and primary care physicians. It involves a pap smear and a pelvicexam. During the pelvic exam, the gynecologist will examine your reproductive organs forabnormalities such as cysts or lumps present. During a […]

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Epilepsy

By:  Aaliyah Ellison-McPeters Importance of Nutrition Adequate nutrition is important throughout all stages of life, spanning from pregnancy to childbirth and healthy aging. There are vitamins and minerals that are referred to as micronutrientsthat are crucial for overall health and disease prevention. They include iron, folate, zinc, and vitaminA, vitamin D, and iodine. Our bodies […]

Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

By:  Catherine Joachin What is mild neurocognitive disorder? Mild neurocognitive disorder (MCI) is a condition marked by a slight decline in memory, language and other cognitive abilities (Yale Medicine, n.d.). Although noticeable, these impairments do not impair daily life or autonomy (Yale Medicine, n.d.). Causes and symptoms According to the 11th edition of the International […]

Alzheimer’s Disease and Epilepsy

By:  Catherine Joachin What is Alzheimer’s Disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a severe neurodegenerative disease marked by a gradual decline in cognitive functions, notably memory, thinking and reasoning (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.). It is the primary cause of dementia and generally affects people aged 65 and older (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.). Causes and risk factors Although the etiology […]

Mental Health and Wellness: Important Facts and Resources

By:  Natalie L. Boehm, MBA, RBLP-T What is Mental Health? According to the World Health Organization, mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. Practicing good mental health is essential in all […]

Valproic Acid

By:  Aya Alrmah Photo Credit: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/3121 This article is meant for educational purposes only and should not be taken as direct medical advice. For any questions or concerns, please speak to your healthcare provider. Introduction Valproic acid (VPA), a natural fatty acid found in plants and animals, has been used as an anticonvulsant since the […]

Fertility Awareness-Based Methods

By:  Aaliyah Ellison-McPeters Introduction When it comes to family planning or pregnancy prevention, women with epilepsy need to take the proper precautions. When it comes to planning for a pregnancy, your OB/GYN as well as your neurologist need to collaborate and make sure all the necessary steps are taken to have a safe pregnancy. For […]