How to diagnose epileptic personality changes

Epilepsy related personality changes require comprehensive diagnosis through neuropsychological evaluation, electroencephalogram examination, imaging examination, clinical behavior observation, and medical history collection. Epilepsy related personality changes may be associated with diseases such as temporal lobe epilepsy and frontal lobe epilepsy, manifested as emotional instability, impulsive behavior, or cognitive decline. It is recommended to seek medical attention from a neurology or psychiatry department as soon as possible, and have a professional doctor diagnose the condition based on clinical manifestations and auxiliary examinations. Neuropsychological assessment is a core tool for diagnosing epileptic personality changes, using standardized scales such as MMSE and WAIS to evaluate memory, attention, and executive function. EEG examination can capture abnormal discharge foci, especially long-range video EEG has a high detection rate for personality changes related to temporal lobe epilepsy. Head MRI or CT can exclude structural lesions such as tumors and hippocampal sclerosis, while functional MRI can help evaluate metabolic abnormalities in brain regions. Doctors need to record in detail the patient's behavioral characteristics such as irritability, stubbornness, or emotional indifference, and cross verify with the medical history provided by the family. Some patients require genetic testing to rule out hereditary epilepsy syndrome. The daily management of epileptic personality changes requires maintaining regular sleep patterns and a stable emotional environment, avoiding triggers such as flash stimulation or sleep deprivation. Family members should learn emergency measures for epileptic seizures and assist patients in taking antiepileptic drugs such as sodium valproate sustained-release tablets and levetiracetam tablets on time. Regularly follow up to adjust treatment plans, and if necessary, combine cognitive-behavioral therapy to improve social functioning. Moderately increase the intake of foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, and limit alcohol and caffeine intake. It is recommended to participate in soothing exercises such as yoga or swimming, and avoid high-risk activities such as high-altitude work and driving.