Özden Gökçek, Miray Başer, Begüm Sundu, Pelin Kartal, Gamze Kuş
Archives of Epilepsy - 2026;32(2):37-40
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, with a multifactorial etiology. This literature review aims to explore multidisciplinary models for the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, with particular focus on the relationship between epilepsy and the respiratory system. In November 2024, we systematically searched Google Scholar and PubMed using the following keywords: "epilepsy" or "seizure", "respiratory system", "hyperventilation", "treatment", "multidisciplinary", "rehabilitation", and "physiotherapy". Epileptic seizures have been shown to affect various physiological systems, including the respiratory system. Specific brain regions involved in seizure activity overlap with areas responsible for respiratory regulation, suggesting a potential bidirectional relationship between seizures and respiratory dysfunction. Respiratory problems induced by seizures may develop into chronic complications and pose serious health risks for individuals with epilepsy. Conversely, pre-existing or seizure-induced respiratory dysfunctions may increase seizure frequency. This review aims to raise awareness of respiratory complications in people with epilepsy and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach, including neurology, pulmonology, rehabilitation, and physiotherapy, in the assessment, treatment, and follow-up of these patients. Further research should investigate the effectiveness and structure of multidisciplinary team models in epilepsy care.
