What is Epilepsy?

Understanding the Basics of a Common Neurological Condition

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in the world, affecting over 50 million people globally, according to the World Health Organization. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy remains misunderstood and surrounded by stigma. In this post, we’ll break down what epilepsy is, what causes it, and how it affects those who live with it.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms—anything from a brief lapse in attention or muscle twitching, to full-body convulsions and loss of consciousness.

To be diagnosed with epilepsy, a person must typically have had two or more unprovoked seizures at least 24 hours apart.

What Is a Seizure?

Seizures vary widely depending on which part of the brain is affected. They are typically classified into two main types:

Focal (Partial) Seizures – Start in one area of the brain and may or may not affect awareness.

Generalized Seizures – Involve both sides of the brain and often lead to loss of consciousness.

Common types include:

Tonic-clonic seizures (previously known as grand mal)

Absence seizures (brief, “staring” spells)

Myoclonic seizures (sudden muscle jerks)

What Causes Epilepsy? In many cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. However, known causes include:

• Genetic factors
• Head trauma
• Stroke
• Brain infections (like meningitis or encephalitis)
• Unknown Reasons

Sometimes epilepsy develops in childhood; other times, it can emerge later in life, especially in older adults after a stroke or brain injury.

How Is Epilepsy Diagnosed? Doctors use a combination of tools to diagnose epilepsy, including:

• Medical history and symptom description
• EEG (electroencephalogram), which measures brain activity
• MRI or CT scans to identify structural issues in the brain

Diagnosis is often made by a neurologist and may take time, as some conditions can mimic seizures.

How Is Epilepsy Treated? While there is no known cure, epilepsy is manageable in most people. Treatment options include:

• Anti-seizure medications (ASMs) – Effective in controlling seizures for about 70% of patients.
• Lifestyle changes – Sleep, stress, and triggers can influence seizure activity.
• Surgery – In cases where seizures originate from one part of the brain and are drug-resistant.
• Devices – Such as vagus nerve stimulators or responsive neurostimulation (RNS).
• Diet therapy – The ketogenic diet is sometimes used in children with hard-to-control epilepsy.

Living with Epilepsy

Epilepsy can impact many areas of life — school, employment, driving, and mental health. Unfortunately, myths and misunderstandings often create stigma for those with the condition. Raising awareness, promoting safety, and supporting those with epilepsy are crucial steps toward building an inclusive society.

References

1. World Health Organization. Epilepsy: Key Facts. 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/epilepsy
2. Epilepsy Foundation. About Epilepsy. 2025. https://www.epilepsy.com/what-is-epilepsy
3. Mayo Clinic. Epilepsy: Symptoms & Causes. 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Epilepsy Basics. 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/about/index.htm
5. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The Epilepsies and Seizures: Hope Through Research. 2023. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/epilepsies-seizures

Authorship Note: This article was drafted with the assistance of ChatGPT (June 2025 version), OpenAI.

The information on EpilepsyDecoded is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis or treatment.