Recurrent seizures can cause physical injuries and may interfere with day-to-day life.
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Types of Seizures
There are many different types of seizures.
They are defined based on the symptoms and the location in the brain where they begin.
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Some of the common seizure types include:
The classification and definitions of seizures can overlap.
People who have epilepsy experience one or more seizure types.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures.
The seizures cause symptoms that correspond to the area of the brain thats affected during the seizure.
Some people may have a specific sequence of symptoms.
For example, a seizure may begin with grunting and progress to involve facial twitching.
Epilepsy is triggered by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain.
A predisposition to seizures is usually associated with one or more areas of brain damage.
Sometimes epilepsy can be triggered by genetic predisposition.
There are many neurodevelopmental conditions (involving the development of the brain) associated with epilepsy.
Some of these include:
Is Epilepsy Hereditary?
Epilepsy can be hereditary.
Common Seizure Triggers
Certain factors can trigger seizures.
Most people who have epilepsy experience unprovoked seizures, which are seizures that occur without a trigger.
Additionally, people who have epilepsy are especially sensitive to seizure triggers.
This may include particular foods, sounds, or smells.
How Is Epilepsy Diagnosed?
Epilepsy is diagnosed based on the symptoms and diagnostic tests.
A history of recurrent seizures, especially unprovoked seizures, is consistent with a diagnosis of epilepsy.
Sometimes changes are detected during aneurological examination, but the physical examination is often normal for people with epilepsy.
Diagnostic tests can help identify whether epilepsy involves focal or generalized seizures.
Medication
Medications indicated for treating epilepsyinclude those that are taken daily to prevent seizures.
Some anti-epilepsy drugs are used on an emergency basis to help stop a prolonged seizure.
Brain and Nerve Stimulation
Certain surgically implanted devices can be used to treat epilepsy.
Living With Epilepsy
Living with epilepsy requiresmaking adjustments to day-to-day lifeto avoid seizure triggers.
For some people, certain accommodations might be necessary for safety.
Managing Seizures
Managing epilepsy involves taking medication as prescribed.
Skipping anti-epilepsy medication or taking it irregularly can cause frequent seizures.
Some anti-epilepsy medications have side effects.
This can involve completely switching to a different prescription or taking treatment to alleviate side effects.
Do not make changes in your anti-seizure medications on your own, because that can lead to seizures.
Devices That Help With Epilepsy
Specialty equipment can help improve quality of life.
Sometimes it can be difficult to regularly attend school or work due to seizures or medication side effects.
Can You Drive With Epilepsy?
Many states have regulations regarding driving for people who have epilepsy.
You and your healthcare provider will have to discuss the regulations and the safest decision for you.
Outlook
Epilepsy is a medical condition with a wide variation in severity.
The outlook varies considerably.
Some people have very good seizure control with a tolerable medication dose.
Many people remain seizure free while taking anti-epilepsy medication.
However, some people with epilepsy continue to have seizures despite medication, surgery, and dietary interventions.
Focal vs generalized epilepsy.Epilepsy Behav.2021;117:107830. doi:10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107830
Epilepsy Foundation.Seizure phases.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Seizure first aid.
