CBD Oil in Epilepsy Treatment: What Do Studies Say?
About the potential effects of CBD, a lot has been said, but in connection with epilepsy, its effects are most demonstrable, which you will learn in today's article. The very finding that the first officially approved CBD-based medication serves to treat two rare types of this disease testifies to the undeniability of this claim. What happens in the body of epileptic patients when they use cannabidiol? Is it safe to administer it to children who suffer from seizures?
What is Epilepsy?
Seizure disorder or epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by seizure occurrences. Abnormal brain activity in patients can temporarily alter their perception, behavior, consciousness, mobility, and other bodily processes. The condition affects men and women of all age groups, with some statistics indicating around 65 million affected individuals worldwide.
According to experts, virtually anyone can experience an epileptic seizure, such as during intoxication or brain hemorrhage. In patients with epilepsy, these states occur repeatedly under normal circumstances, without a specific cause. Pathological neuronal activity (brain cells) typical of this disease can sometimes appear in healthy individuals. It can be said that neurons in the brain do not maintain the normally alternating periods of rest and signal transmission.
Seizure Classification and Epilepsy Symptoms
1. Focal Seizures
Originating from the cerebral cortex of one hemisphere. During a seizure, the patient may remain conscious or lose consciousness. Some also experience motor symptoms such as uncontrollable movements, possible stiffening, or manifestations of fear, joy, anxiety, etc.
2. Generalized Seizures
Both brain hemispheres are involved, causing a disruption of consciousness. Patients commonly experience motor manifestations, such as muscle twitches or contractions/spasms. In some cases, patients may bite their tongue. Patients usually wake up confused and exhausted after a seizure. Some generalized seizures are not accompanied by motor symptoms.
Generally, symptoms can vary depending on their origin. Temporary symptoms typically include loss of consciousness, mood changes, visual, auditory, or taste disturbances, and cognitive dysfunction. Seizures pose a risk of injuries caused by motor manifestations. Patients often experience psychological problems like depression or anxiety. Some research suggests an increased risk of premature death, up to three times higher.
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