Epilepsy is often considered a disorder of the young, but the greatest number of newly diagnosed cases each year occurs in the elderly. People over 65 are the fastest-growing group in America to develop the disorder.
"Few realize that epilepsy is not just a disorder people are born with - that epilepsy can develop as people age," said NCOA President and CEO James P. Firman. He also noted that within 30 years, one out of every five Americans will be 65 or older, increasing the importance of managing health risks for the elderly.
"Epilepsy can be difficult to recognize in elderly people because it's not just falling down on the floor and convulsing," said Eric Hargas, president and CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation. "Symptoms of epilepsy can be very subtle like hearing unusual sounds, blurred vision or sudden anxiety."
The disorder often develops as a result of common health problems in the elderly including stroke, certain types of cancers or heart diseases. Once diagnosed, physicians then face the challenge of simultaneously treating patients for epilepsy and other conditions.
"It's important for all epilepsy patients to find a therapy that provides seizure freedom without side effects," said Eugene Ramsay M.D., director, International Center for Epilepsy, University of Miami School of Medicine. "Seniors are often treating multiple health problems, so it is especially important to be aware of potential drug-drug interactions."
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Contact: Scott Parkin
scott.parkin@ncoa.org
202-479-6975
American Epilepsy Society
9-Dec-2003