'I no longer live in fear of having seizures'

EEG is used to evaluate several types of brain disorders, especially epilepsy. [iStockphoto]

Epilepsy also known as a seizure disorder is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures.

Seizure symptoms can vary widely. Some people may lose awareness during a seizure while others don't. Some people stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure. Others may have convulsions.

People with epilepsy share the same rights and obligations as anyone else. And the most important right may be Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that we are all born free and equal in dignity and rights.

People with epilepsy are among the most vulnerable in society not only because of the condition itself but also due to the stigma; this leads to discrimination and limitations in economic, political, social and cultural rights.

In early 2007 Kwamboka started her monthly visits to KNH. Eventually, the frequency of her visits was reduced to every two months and finally every three months.

Around 2009 she did a second EEG, and the doctor prescribed more drugs. However, one of the drugs had side effects and though the seizures had gone down, she developed anger issues and would oversleep.

In 2011 she had a third EEG but there was not much change in her condition.

Dr Zachary Ng'etich, a Clinical Neurophysiologist at the East Africa Neuroscience Services says epilepsy can be caused by many factors including; genetics, infections, injury to the brain and tumors.

"Go for the right diagnosis and treatment. Understand the cause; use an electroencephalogram (EEG) test to come up with a conclusion," he says.

Usually, Dr Ng'etich says, signs do not show up immediately. "They can show up at the age of 5-10. Diagnosis should involve one getting the right history on pregnancy, malaria treatment and even meningitis."

Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures. [iStockphoto]

Dr Ng'etich was able to diagnose the source of Kwamboka's seizures, prescribe the right medication and ultimately give Kwamboka her life back.

By the time Kwamboka met with Dr Ng'etich, she had tried many medications, none of which helped control her seizures and had several side effects. She wanted to try other treatment options.

"Kwamboka was introduced to me by a friend. Her treatments weren't controlling the seizures. With epilepsy, you need the correct diagnosis to know what you're dealing with. Some medicines are better for some types of seizures than others. This is what Kwamboka was going through," Dr Ng'etich says.

After assessment, he confirmed to Kwamboka that drug interaction was the main cause of the constant seizures. He did away with all other drugs and recommended a different drug.

"I have better sleep, I can eat as per schedule. I feel whole. And I live a completely new life," Kwamboka says.