Overview: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that causes temporary changes in behavior, awareness, or physical function. Epilepsy affects approximately 1% of the population and can develop at any age.

Types of Seizures

  • Generalized Seizures: Affect both sides of the brain
    • Tonic-clonic seizures (formerly called grand mal)
    • Absence seizures (formerly called petit mal)
    • Atonic seizures (drop attacks)
    • Myoclonic seizures (sudden jerking movements)
  • Focal Seizures: Start in one area of the brain
    • Focal aware seizures (patient remains conscious)
    • Focal impaired awareness seizures (patient loses awareness)

Causes

  • Brain injury or trauma
  • Stroke or brain tumor
  • Infection (meningitis, encephalitis)
  • Genetic factors
  • Brain malformations
  • Metabolic disorders
  • In many cases, the cause is unknown (idiopathic epilepsy)

Risk Factors

  • Family history of epilepsy
  • Head injury
  • Brain infection
  • Stroke
  • Dementia
  • Brain tumor
  • Developmental disorders

Symptoms

  • Sudden jerking movements (convulsions)
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Staring spells
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Unusual sensations (tingling, burning)
  • Emotional changes (fear, anxiety)
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

Diagnosis

  • Detailed medical history and seizure description
  • EEG (electroencephalography) to record brain electrical activity
  • Brain MRI to identify structural abnormalities
  • Blood tests to rule out metabolic causes
  • Video monitoring during seizures if hospitalized

Treatment Options

  • Anti-Seizure Medications: First-line treatment for most patients
    • Levetiracetam, valproic acid, lamotrigine, phenytoin, and many others
    • Medication selection based on seizure type and patient factors
  • Surgical Intervention: For drug-resistant epilepsy
    • Resective surgery to remove seizure focus
    • Vagus nerve stimulation
    • Deep brain stimulation
  • Lifestyle Modifications:
    • Adequate sleep
    • Stress management
    • Avoiding triggers (flashing lights, alcohol, caffeine)
    • Regular exercise
    • Healthy diet

Seizure First Aid

  • Stay calm and keep the person safe
  • Turn person on their side to keep airway clear
  • Do NOT restrain or put objects in mouth
  • Time the seizure
  • Call emergency services if seizure lasts > 5 minutes
  • Stay with the person until fully conscious

Living with Epilepsy

With proper treatment, approximately 70% of people with epilepsy can control their seizures. Many people with well-controlled epilepsy can drive, work, and participate in normal activities. Our team provides comprehensive support including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and psychosocial support.