What is Epilepsy? Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide. It causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures — sudden surges of electrical activity in the brain. Understanding what epilepsy is, what causes it, how it’s diagnosed, and how it is treated is vital for patients, caregivers, medical students, and anyone interested in neurology.
🧠 What is Epilepsy?
Definition: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by two or more unprovoked seizures, typically separated by at least 24 hours.
Seizure: A sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain, which can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, or consciousness.
⚡ Types of Seizures
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Focal (Partial) | Start in a specific area; symptoms depend on brain region affected. |
| Generalized | Affect both hemispheres; includes tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic seizures. |
| Unknown Onset | Origin unclear at first; may become clear with further investigation. |
🔍 Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Head trauma
- Stroke or vascular disease
- Brain infections (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis)
- Developmental disorders
- Brain tumors
- Metabolic disorders
- Prenatal injury
- Triggers: flashing lights, alcohol, lack of sleep
🧪 Diagnosis
- Detailed medical history
- Neurological examination
- EEG (Electroencephalogram)
- Imaging (MRI/CT)
- Blood tests (metabolic causes, infections, drug levels)
💊 Drugs Used to Treat Epilepsy
Treatment begins with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). About 66% of patients gain good control with medication.
🧭 Choosing the Right Drug
- Type of seizure
- Age, comorbidities
- Drug interactions
- Side effect profile
- Pregnancy potential
- Cost and patient preference
🧬 Other Treatments
- Surgery (for seizure focus)
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
- Ketogenic diet
- Responsive neurostimulation
- Experimental therapies
❓ FAQs on What is Epilepsy?
Q1: Can epilepsy be cured?
Q2: Are there side effects of AEDs?
Q3: Can epilepsy be treated differently in kids?
Q4: What happens if I stop AEDs suddenly?
