Epilepsy

Key Points

Overview

Epilepsy is a brain condition that leads to recurrent seizures, sometimes called fits. These seizures happen when there's unusual electrical activity in the brain, causing temporary changes in how the body functions. While it can start at any age, epilepsy commonly appears in young children and people over 50. It's typically diagnosed after more than one seizure or if tests show a high risk of future seizures. Although there's no cure, treatment primarily involves medication to help control seizures. A care team works with patients to create a plan for managing the condition and responding to seizures.

Signs and Symptoms

• Body becoming stiff or floppy
• Sudden falling to the floor
• Jerking or twitching movements
• Unintentional urination
• Loss of awareness, staring into space
• Unusual feelings (strange smells, tingling, vision changes)
• Sudden feelings of fear
• Unusual behavior (fidgeting, walking unaware)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Onset in early childhood
• Onset after age 50
• Having experienced one seizure
• Underlying brain conditions causing seizures

Diagnosis

• Consultation with a specialist doctor
• Detailed review of seizure events (before, during, after)
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) to check brain activity
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart
• Brain scans (MRI, CT)
• Blood tests
• Genetic testing

Treatment & Management

• Anti-epileptic medicines to prevent seizures
• Emergency medicine for prolonged seizures
• Development of a personalized care plan
• Regular check-ups with a specialist team
• Brain surgery (in rare cases)
• Vagus nerve stimulation (in rare cases)
• Specialist ketogenic diet (in rare cases)

Prevention

• Inform family and friends on seizure response
• Carry medical identification
• Keep a diary to identify seizure triggers
• Make home environment safer (e.g., carpets, radiator covers)
• Consider using a seizure alarm
• Prefer showers over baths for safety
• Exercise caution during activities like cooking or swimming
• Strictly adhere to medication schedule
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Related Diseases

• Stroke
• Brain Tumors
• Head Injury
• Febrile Seizures

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Epilepsy:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Epilepsy: