Both seizures and tremors are serious conditions that trigger involuntary shaking in the body. Symptoms generally include violent shaking of the legs and arms, loss of control, confusion, changes in behavior, and a quavering voice, among others. Epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease are two of the most common conditions that cause seizures and tremors.
While there are a wide range of treatment plans for seizures and tremors, very few are effective, safe, and trusted by neurologists. Here are just some of the ones that neurosurgeons trust as effective in most cases.
1. Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is one of the most effective treatments for seizures and tremors. The surgical procedure involves the implantation of electrodes in a specific part of the brain—the thalamus. These electrodes help regulate abnormalities by releasing electrical impulses. The electrical stimulation is carefully adjusted depending on the patient’s condition.
DBS effectively reduces motor symptoms and improves the overall quality of life of the patient. It’s important to note that the treatment is not a cure. Instead, it helps reduce the severity of symptoms.
Recommended Read:Deep Brain Stimulation for Epilepsy: Your Questions Answered
2. Ultrasound Therapy and MR-guided Focused Ultrasound
Over the years, ultrasound therapy has rapidly grown as a safe treatment for seizures and tremors. Focused ultrasound involves passing ultrasound beams through the brain. The small patch of brain tissue that’s contributing to the tremor is meticulously targeted and ablated without causing any harm. The procedure is noninvasive and quick. It also doesn’t cause any discomfort.
One type of treatment that uses MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) comes from a company called INSIGHTECÒ. The technique requires no incision and uses focused ultrasound technology waves that safely pass through skin, muscle and bone. The treatment heats the targeted spot heating it causing thermal ablation—all of which allows doctors to plan treatment more accurately and monitor it in real time.
3. Medication
Mild seizures and tremors can also be treated with medication like Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Lamotrigine, Oxcarbazepine, Topiramate, Gabapentin or Phenobarbital among others. If you’re experiencing tremors, you may be prescribed beta-adrenergic blockers and anti-seizure medication. If medication doesn’t help with your symptoms, your doctor may recommend DBS, ultrasound therapy, or another procedure.
Get Treated for Seizures and Tremors at Houston Physicians’ Hospital
If you or a loved one is experiencing seizures or tremors, see your doctor immediately. If you don’t have one, you can find one that practices at the Houston Physicians’ Hospital website. We specialize in creating hyper-specific treatment plans for patients in Houston, Webster, Clear Lake, League City, or Galveston. Our treatments also include back surgery, physical therapy services, and knee replacement, and more.