Recently many articles have been published about epilepsy surgery. Studies of outcomes after surgery show that seizure control matters, but people with or without good seizure control may have problems managing life after surgery.
Believe it or not, it can be hard to live with life without seizures. It may take a while to let go of the worry about when the next seizure may occur or become more independent and try new opportunities.
For many people, problems other than seizures may remain. For example learning difficulties may still affect how someone does in school, their choice of job, or just their enjoyment from reading and pursuing other activities.
Mood problems such as depression or anxiety may still occur after surgery and for some, may temporarily worsen. Some of the mood changes may go away as the brain ‘calms’ down after surgery and if seizure control lessens. But for other people, depression or mood changes may become a chronic problem that requires help.
Changes in work life or other activity is a goal for many people, however, improvements or changes may depend on many factors. For example, seizures, learning difficulties, depression or other problems could all impact a person’s ability to work or the type of work or activity they choose.
What does all this m