Epilepsy
Description
Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes seizures—episodes of unusual behavior, movements, or sensations caused by bursts of electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can look very different from person to person and can range from brief lapses of attention to longer convulsions. Epilepsy is usually diagnosed by a doctor after reviewing a person’s medical history and seizure descriptions, and sometimes with tests like EEG or brain imaging. While many people with epilepsy lead full, active lives, seizures and their effects vary, and some people may need ongoing care and safety planning. If you or someone else has recurring seizures, it is important to seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional.
Common Symptoms
• Seizures with loss of awareness and convulsions (stiffening and jerking of the body).
• Brief episodes of staring or unresponsiveness lasting a few seconds.
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking after a seizure.
• Uncontrolled jerking movements of the arms and legs, sometimes on one side.
• Sudden loss of balance or a fall during a seizure.
• Auras—unusual sensations, smells, tastes, sounds, or feelings that precede a seizure.
• Fatigue, headache, or muscle soreness after a seizure (the postictal state).
• Repetitive movements or automatisms, such as lip-smacking or pacing, during a seizure.
• If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, seek evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.
Causes
Epilepsy has many possible causes and can run in families due to genetic factors.
Brain injuries or diseases such as stroke, head trauma, brain infections, or tumors can trigger it.
Developmental or congenital brain abnormalities and birth injuries are also risk factors.
Age, neurological conditions, and a family history can increase risk; in many people no clear cause is found.
For personalized guidance, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Treatment Options
Epilepsy treatment usually involves lifestyle adjustments, medications, and sometimes procedures.
Lifestyle approaches include regular sleep, stress management, avoiding triggers, safety planning, and following the overall treatment plan.
Medications (antiepileptic drugs) are commonly used to reduce seizures, with ongoing medical supervision to monitor effectiveness and side effects.
Procedures may include surgical options to remove or disconnect seizure-causing tissue, neurostimulation therapies such as vagus nerve stimulation or responsive neurostimulation, and dietary therapies like the ketogenic diet.
Treatments are individualized with the goal of reducing seizures and improving quality of life; consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance.