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About Epilepsy

Epilepsy and Seizures

Explore the What is Epilepsy section to learn more about epilepsy/seizure disorders

What is Epilepsy

An introduction to epilepsy

Epilepsy, often called a seizure disorder, is a neurological condition caused by sudden brief changes in the brain’s electrical balance. When there are excess electrical discharges in the brain, seizures occur. Seizures can alter awareness, physical movements...  MORE

What is a Seizure

Defining seizures

Your brain cells, also called neurons, send electric messages to each other, allowing your brain to control everything that goes on in your body. A seizure is a sudden surge of extra electrical activity in the brain that, unlike the other messages sent by neurons...  MORE

Diagnosis

How epilepsy is diagnosed

After someone has a seizure for the first time, the doctor will try to determine what might have caused it, as well what types of treatment might be appropriate. They will check for signs of additional seizures or a tendency towards...  MORE

Treatment

How epilepsy is treated

There are different types of seizures with many treatment options to consider. The goal of all epilepsy treatment is to stop the seizures with as few side effects as possible. In all cases, it is important for you to take your medications and follow your treatment plan...  MORE

Seizure Recognition and First Aid

The different types of seizures, and the appropriate responses to each

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Facts

Basic facts and statistics about epilepsy

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Myths about Epilepsy

There remains a lot of fear and misinformation around epilepsy

Despite progress in educating the public about epilepsy, some myths about epilepsy still exist. It helps to know what they are so you can let others know that they are not true. Here are some of the most common myths...  MORE

Safety and Driving

Tips to help reduce the risks associated with epilepsy

There are always risks involved with any diagnosis. With epilepsy/seizure disorder, you can reduce your risk of having seizures by taking your medicine exactly as prescribed, keeping a health diary, having a seizure action plan, and knowing your seizure triggers...  MORE

SUDEP

Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy

Most people with epilepsy live a full lifetime. However, some serious health risks are related to epilepsy, including the risk of premature death. Discuss health risks with your primary care physician and neurologist. Ask if you should...  MORE