Other ways of treating epilepsy

Most people with epilepsy take anti-epileptic drugs for their epilepsy and these can be very effective. Sometimes, if anti-epileptic drugs don’t work well, doctors may suggest surgery or vagus nerve stimulation as a way of treating epilepsy.

Surgery

Surgery is only suitable for a small number of people with epilepsy. This is because there has to be an obvious structural cause for the epilepsy (such as scar tissue). Doctors must also weigh up the benefits of surgery against the risks associated with having an operation on the brain.

Doctors will usually only consider surgery if you have tried lots of different anti-epileptic drugs, but your seizures are still not controlled.

• More information about surgery for epilepsy

Vagus nerve stimulation

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a treatment for epilepsy where a small generator is implanted under the skin below the left collar bone. This generator is connected to a leads which stimulate the vagus nerve in the neck at regular intervals. The aim of VNS is to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.

It is rare for a person to become seizure free as a result of VNS. However, many people have fewer or less severe seizures and report a better quality of life overall.

• More information about vagus nerve stimulation for epilepsy]

Complementary treatments

Some people find complementary treatments helpful in treating their epilepsy. These include acupuncture, aromatherapy, herbal treatments and homeopathy. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that any type of complementary treatment is successful in controlling or curing epilepsy. For this reason, it’s recommended that it should be used alongside anti-epileptic drugs, rather than replacing them.

If you are considering trying a complementary treatment it’s advisable to check that the practitioner is properly qualified. It is also a good idea to talk over any treatment with your doctor or epilepsy specialist first. 

Aromatherapy

Some people like to use aromatherapy for general relaxation. If you’re interested in this, it’s worth bearing in mind that some aromatherapy oils are known to trigger seizures. These include rosemary, sage, hyssop, fennel and wormwood.  You should avoid these oils if you have epilepsy.

• More information about complementary treatments and epilepsy.