Understanding Epilepsy
Knowledge is the first step toward awareness, support, and hope.
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds — approximately 3.4 million Americans and 65 million people worldwide live with epilepsy.
A single seizure does not mean a person has epilepsy. A diagnosis typically requires two or more unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart, or one unprovoked seizure with a high likelihood of recurrence.
Types of Seizures
Focal Onset Seizures
Begin in one area of the brain. May cause unusual feelings, emotions, or movements on one side of the body. The person may remain aware or lose awareness.
Generalised Onset Seizures
Affect both sides of the brain simultaneously. Includes tonic-clonic (grand mal), absence, myoclonic, and atonic seizures.
Unknown Onset Seizures
When the beginning of a seizure is not observed or is unclear, it is classified as unknown onset until more information is available.
Absence Seizures
Brief episodes of staring or blanking out lasting a few seconds. Common in children and often mistaken for daydreaming.
Causes & Risk Factors
Genetic Factors
Some types of epilepsy run in families due to inherited gene mutations that affect how brain cells communicate.
Brain Injury
Head trauma from accidents, strokes, tumours, or infections such as meningitis can trigger epilepsy.
Developmental Conditions
Conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and neurofibromatosis are associated with a higher risk of epilepsy.
Unknown Causes
In about half of all epilepsy cases, no clear cause can be identified. Research continues to uncover new insights.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Epilepsy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, neurological exams, EEG (electroencephalogram), and brain imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Treatment options vary by individual and may include anti-seizure medications, dietary therapies such as the ketogenic diet, nerve stimulation devices, or surgery in select cases. Working closely with a neurologist is essential to finding the right treatment plan.
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