Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at Sierra Campus

If you suspect you might be dealing with epilepsy, you are not alone. In fact, you are in the company of 2.4 million other adults and children, along with another 150,000 who are newly diagnosed each year.

The Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. Our trained medical, nursing and technical staff not only evaluates seizure disorders, but can also help create your individualized and comprehensive treatment plan to reduce or may eliminate your seizure activity. In other words, they can help you get back to leading a full and active life.

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which the nerve cells in your brain are disturbed, causing two or more unprovoked seizures which can vary from unnoticeable changes in mental state to convulsing fits. A seizure occurs when brain cells that control body functions generate abnormal or excessive electrical discharges.

Red flags for epilepsy

Have you experienced a time of involuntary change in body movement, function, sensation, awareness or behavior?

Maybe you’ve had episodes that caused you to fall to the ground and shake, unaware of what is happening around you?

Have loved ones told you they have noticed moments when you seem confused or like you’re looking at something that isn’t there?

All of these things are possible indications of epilepsy or epilepsy syndromes, and if you experience them, you should talk with your doctor about getting evaluated.

Diagnosing

Some people may be more genetically predisposed to epilepsy. Others might develop the seizure disorder after experiencing a brain injury. In most patients, though, the cause of the epilepsy remains a mystery.

What we do know is this: Epileptic seizures are caused by disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity, and most patients have already had at least two unprovoked seizures before they are diagnosed. So, we also know that an accurate diagnosis of epilepsy – and what specific type – is a critical first step.

Epileptic patients can have more than one type of seizure and the seizures can range in severity; it may even be difficult to determine when you are having a seizure. Our staff will monitor the frequency and location of seizure activity in your brain, as well as the duration of each incident and its effect on your body.

We offer:

• Two dedicated private rooms
• 24-hour access to an Epileptologist physician
• 24-hour monitoring by a qualified EEG technician
• The ability to quickly identify your seizure activity, type of seizure, and the location of onset
• Appropriately placed cushioning devices for your protection
• Advanced video recording
• A comfortable environment for you and your visitors.

For more information on the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, please call us at 866-934-3627