What should you know about epilepsy?

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. These seizures stem from uncontrolled electrical discharges in the brain, which can provoke a variety of symptoms, from minor sensory disturbances to severe convulsions.

What can trigger an epilepsy seizure?

Epileptic seizures can be triggered by various factors, including brain injuries, infections, strokes, and structural brain defects. For some people, the causes of epilepsy are hereditary. Additionally, seizures can be induced by lack of sleep, stress, intense light stimuli, and even the consumption of alcohol or cigarettes.

What are the symptoms of epilepsy?

The symptoms of epilepsy depend on the type of seizure and the area of the brain that is involved. Seizures can be generalized, affecting the entire brain surface and manifesting as tonic-clonic, myoclonic, or atonic convulsions. Focal seizures affect a specific area of the brain and can be simple with retained consciousness, or complex with unusual movements and behaviors.

Is epilepsy the same as a seizure?

Yes, the terms "epilepsy" and "seizure" are used interchangeably. Both refer to the same neurological disorder characterized by seizures resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

How to recognize a seizure?

A seizure can be recognized by observing symptoms such as loss of consciousness, convulsions, body stiffening, myoclonus (short, sudden muscle contractions), atonia (sudden loss of muscle tone), or unusual behaviors such as smacking lips or rubbing hands. In the case of focal seizures, symptoms may include strange sensory experiences like hearing sounds or seeing non-existent objects.