What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a condition in which a person has repeated seizures. A seizure happens when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Epilepsy can cause:

• Changes in thinking or behavior.

• Confusion or loss of awareness.

• Falls, accidents, or injuries.

• Problems with memory.

• Depression or sadness.

 Most people with epilepsy can live normal lives with proper treatment.

Causes

In many people, the exact cause is not known. Possible causes include:

• Head injury or birth injury.

• Stroke or bleeding in the brain.

• Brain infection or tumor.

• High fever in childhood.

• Lack of oxygen to the brain.

• Abnormal brain development.

• Genetic (inherited) conditions.

• Certain drugs or medicines.

Symptoms

Seizure symptoms vary. They can happen before, during, or after a seizure.

During a seizure:

• Shaking or jerking movements (convulsions).

• Stiffness of the body.

• Trouble breathing.

• Confusion or staring.

• Sudden loss of awareness (unresponsive).

• Nodding, blinking, or twitching.

• Drooling, grunting, or unusual sounds.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control.

Before a seizure (aura/warning signs):

• Feeling afraid or anxious.

• Nausea or stomach upset.

• Dizziness or vertigo.

• Déjà vu (feeling like something has happened before).

• Unusual tastes, smells, or flashing lights.
  
  

After a seizure:

• Confusion.

• Sleepiness.

• Headache.

• Sore muscles.
  
  

Diagnosis

Your doctor may order:

• Medical history and seizure description.

• Neurological exam (strength, reflexes, balance, senses).

• EEG (records brain waves).

• MRI or CT scan.

• Blood tests or lumbar puncture if needed.

Treatment

Epilepsy can usually be controlled with treatment:

• Medicines (anti-seizure drugs) – most common.

• Vagus nerve stimulator (VNS): device in chest to reduce seizures.

• Surgery: if medicines don’t work.

• Special diet (ketogenic diet): low carb, high fat.Regular blood tests to check drug levels.

 Start treatment as soon as possible. Some people may eventually outgrow epilepsy.

Living with Epilepsy

Medicines:

• Take medicines exactly as prescribed.

• Do not stop suddenly.

• Avoid alcohol or anything that interferes with medicine.

Lifestyle & activity:

• Get enough sleep – lack of sleep can trigger seizures.

• Follow your doctor’s advice about driving, swimming, climbing, or other risky activities.

• In India check rules for driving with epilepsy.
  
  

Self-care:

• Keep a seizure diary (date, triggers, duration).

• Avoid known seizure triggers.

• Keep regular follow-up visits.
  
  

When to Call for Help

Call emergency services if:

• A seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.

• You have repeated seizures without recovery.

• You have trouble breathing.

• You don’t wake up after a seizure.

• You injure yourself during a seizure.

• You have new confusion, weakness, or speech problems.

Key Takeaway: Epilepsy is usually well controlled with treatment. Knowing how to recognize and respond to seizures, taking medicines correctly, and making safe lifestyle choices are the best ways to live well with epilepsy.