2009 Lecture Series
Topic: Navigating the Educational Needs of Children with Epilepsy
- David Salsberg, PsyD DABP
- (video) (slide show)
- Summary: In order to make well thought out decisions for children it is necessary to acknowledge all objective data including scores from testing, observations, outside therapists, history, emotional and personality variables, family and school data. One must pay close attention to their child and look for early signs of epilepsy in order to address specific educational needs and prevent hindered development.
Topic: Parents and Caregiver Forum
- Daniel Miles, MD and Peggy Guinnessey, Sr. Recreational Therapist
- (video)
- Summary: Daniel Miles states that parents should work with an attorney with a knowledge of epilepsy in order to receive sound advice for their specific situation. Also discussed are the different methods of payment for Epileptic children’s special needs and their future financial needs. The lecture ends with Peggy Guinnessey, Senior Recreational Therapist, discussing the Parent Network, a new program that focuses on matching parents of children with Epilepsy with other parents in similar situations.
Topic: What's New in Clinical Trials
- Jacqueline French, MD
- (video) (slide show)
- Summary: Many new medical drugs and devices are in their last stages of development as well as medications that have recently been released on the market. This lecture discusses specific advances and medications. However, it is stressed that in order to come out with new and improved treatment options, researchers need volunteers for clinical trials.
Topic: Herbal Treatment of Epilepsy
- Siddhartha Nadkarni, MD
- (video) (slide show)
- Summary: Herbs are proven to effect AED levels and lower the effectiveness of a patient's epilepsy medication. In some cases, people will benefit from THC; however, some are likely to develop worsening seizures. There have been no positive studies about THC and it is generally agreed that the probable costs outweigh the possible benefits. Nevertheless, It is crucial to stay updated and informed. Lastly, patients should communicate regularly with doctors about current herbal treatments they are trying and research with doctors, the side effects of such herbs.
