TOPIC: Epilepsy

On the next Health we'll examine Epilepsy - a common neurological condition that makes people susceptible to seizures. Today, more than two and a half million Americans have epilepsy, and as many as 180 thousand new cases will be diagnosed this year. Epilepsy affects people of all ages, walks of life and ethnic backgrounds. Join host, Benita Zahn for a look at what triggers epilepsy, the latest in treatment options and how to live a full life while managing the condition. We'll also cover how to recognize a seizure and what you can do to help someone who is having one.

GUESTS:

Samuel Koszer, MD
Dr. Koszer is an associate professor of neurology and neurosurgery at Albany Medical College. Dr. Koszer also serves as the Director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at Albany Medical Center.

Daniel Silverman, MD
Dr. Silverman is a neurologist in practice at Center Healthcare located in Albany. Dr. Silverman is the head of Neurology at the Center for the Disabled. He is also on the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York's Professional Advisory Committee.

Liz Foster, RN
Ms. Foster is the Nurse Educator at the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York. She teaches about epilepsy and seizure disorders to many groups as well as to individual patients and families. School personnel, including teachers, nurses, bus personnel and students of all grade levels find that these sessions help them to make school a positive experience for students with epilepsy. Educational sessions are available on seizure recognition and first aid for nursing homes, home care agencies, social service agencies, camp counselors, and the general public. Liz is available by phone to patients in order to provide information and referrals to other agencies and services. She may be reached at (518) 456-7501 or (800) 894-3223.