7Treatment Options for Atonic Seizures
Some factors may determine the treatment plan for atonic seizures. These include the overall health, age, as well as frequency and severity of attacks. Common treatment options are as below:
– Anti-epilepsy drugs: This is the most common option to treat epilepsy. However, people with atonic seizures do not usually respond well to these medications. You may need another option along with anti-epilepsy drugs.
– Vagus nerve stimulation: If anti-epilepsy drugs are not effective enough, your doctor may suggest this treatment option. It involves the use of a device placed under the chest skin to stimulate the vagus nerve, which transmits signals between the brain and other parts of the body. Doing this may help lower the frequency of atopic seizures.
– Diet changes: Children with atonic seizures may be treated with a low-carb and high-fat diet. This would include the modified Atkins diet or keto diet. It is important to consult a dietitian to prevent side effects and ensure safety.
– Brain surgery: Callosotomy is a surgical procedure for treating atonic seizures. During this surgery, two parts of the brain will be disconnected to prevent abnormal electrical activities in one side from affecting the other. In most cases, the results tend to be more effective than vagus nerve stimulation. [8]
