Epilepsy Overview

Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures. There are many types of epilepsy. In some people, the cause can be identified. In others, the cause is not known.

It is common, affecting about 1.2% of people in the United States, according to the CDC. Epilepsy affects people of all genders, races, ethnic backgrounds, and ages.

Seizure Symptoms

Symptoms of seizures can vary. Some may involve a loss of awareness, while others may result in body movements like convulsions. Symptoms include:

• Temporary confusion
• Staring spells
• Stiff muscles
• Jerking movements of the arms and legs
• Loss of consciousness
• Psychological symptoms such as fear or anxiety

Seizure Warning Signs

Some people experience warning signs before a seizure, known as aura. These may include:

• Feeling in the stomach
• Emotions such as fear or deja vu
• Taste or smell sensations
• Visual changes like flashing lights or specific colors
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Hallucinations

Seizure Classifications

Seizures are categorized as either focal or generalized:

• Focal seizures originate in one area of the brain
• Generalized seizures involve the entire brain

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical help if:

• The seizure lasts more than five minutes
• Breathing or consciousness doesn't return after the seizure
• A second seizure follows immediately
• You have a high fever
• You're pregnant or have diabetes
• You’ve injured yourself during a seizure

Causes of Epilepsy

Epilepsy may be caused by various factors:

• Genetic factors
• Head trauma such as car accidents
• Brain conditions like brain tumors or vascular malformations
• Infections like meningitis or viral encephalitis
• Developmental disorders like autism

Complications

Seizures can cause complications such as:

• Injury from falling or drowning
• Car accidents
• Sleep issues like insomnia
• Pregnancy complications
• Memory loss