Dysfunction of the Autonomic Nervous Systemin Epilepsy

Generalized or partial epileptic seizures may be accompanied by autonomic dysfunction. They may also take the form of self-inflicted seizures or be present during interictal period. Arrhythmias, resulting in haemodynamic disturbances in the circulatory system and prolonged hypoxia of the central nervous system, may itself provoke secondary episodes of seizure morphology. The doctor when diagnosing patients with epileptic seizures should always be aware of the potential for cardiogenic disorders. Consideration should be given to the effect of epilepsy on the structure of the autonomic nervous system, the effect of antiepileptic drugs, and the potential for mutations within the ion channels.