Epilepsy FAQs
1. What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. These seizures
are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
2. What causes epilepsy?
Epilepsy can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, brain injury,
stroke, brain tumors, infections, and developmental disorders. In many cases, the cause is unknown.
3. What are the different types of seizures?
Seizures are generally classified into two main types: focal (partial) seizures, which originate in
a specific area of the brain, and generalized seizures, which involve the entire brain.
4. How is epilepsy diagnosed?
Epilepsy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, neurological exams, and diagnostic
tests such as electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure electrical activity in the brain, and imaging
studies like MRI or CT scans to look for physical changes in the brain.
5. What triggers seizures in people with epilepsy?
Seizure triggers vary from person to person and can include stress, lack of sleep, flashing lights,
alcohol, certain medications, hormonal changes, and missing doses of epilepsy medication.
6. How is epilepsy treated?
Epilepsy is primarily treated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), which help control seizures. In cases
where medication is ineffective, other treatments may include ketogenic diets, responsive
neurostimulation, or surgery to remove the seizure focus.
7. Can people with epilepsy lead normal lives?
Yes, with proper treatment and management, many people with epilepsy can lead normal, active lives.
However, they may need to take precautions to avoid known triggers and ensure safety during
potential seizure episodes.
8. What should you do if someone has a seizure?
If someone has a seizure, it’s important to stay calm, protect them from injury by moving objects
away, place them on their side to keep their airway clear, and time the seizure. Do not put anything
in their mouth or try to restrain them. Seek medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five
minutes or if it’s their first seizure.
9. Is epilepsy hereditary?
There is a genetic component to epilepsy, and having a family member with epilepsy can increase the
risk. However, many cases of epilepsy have no clear genetic link, and the condition can develop due
to other factors.
10. What is the difference between epilepsy and seizures?
A seizure is a single event of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, while epilepsy is a
chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Having a single seizure does not necessarily
mean a person has epilepsy.
