He discussed several neurological conditions:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Epe described ASD as a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting interaction, communication and social skills, with patients displaying unusual or repetitive behaviors. While considered a lifelong diagnosis, he said early therapy can bring improvement.
The exact cause remains unknown, though Epe said children are born with the disorder, possibly due to genetic changes or environmental factors affecting development before conception or in the womb.
ADHD: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder manifests as an inability to sustain prolonged attention, with patients displaying impulsiveness and difficulty remaining still, he said.
Epilepsy: The condition involves two or more seizures occurring without fever or other health issues present, Epe explained. It stems from abnormal brain activity that may result from tumors or scars from previous brain trauma.
Prolonged seizures pose risks by disrupting breathing and oxygen supply to the brain, potentially causing further damage.
Migraines: Common even in newborns, migraines occur when pain-sensitive brain areas are activated by triggers including menstrual periods, certain foods, odors or other events, Epe said.
Hydrocephalus: This condition involves head enlargement due to excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulation, occurring when fluid production exceeds absorption or drainage. Causes include infection or congenital drainage issues. Treatment typically involves surgical insertion of a shunt to drain fluid from the brain to the abdomen.
Meningitis: Patients who survive meningitis may experience developmental delays, with traumatic brain effects potentially leading to problems with intelligence, behavior or movement later in life, he said.
FIRST AID GUIDANCE
For fever-induced convulsions, Epe advised caregivers to remain calm and focus on lowering body temperature through sponge baths using tap water on the head, neck, chest, back and armpits, followed by rubbing with a dry towel to dissipate heat. Seizures typically stop when temperature drops, he said.
He emphasized positioning patients on their side and clearing froth from the mouth to prevent choking, while avoiding pressing on the tongue or other body parts.
Epe maintains clinic hours at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center on Thursday afternoons and at Coop Hospital after 5 p.m. on weekdays.
While he accepts walk-in patients, appointments are required for neurodevelopmental conditions like ASD due to lengthy treatment processes. Prospective patients are advised to contact his secretary, Jackie Lou, for scheduling.