Epilepsy affects an estimated 2.3 million adults and about 467,711 children in the U.S. In people with epilepsy, certain nerve cells send out erratic signals that can cause the body to seize for a few seconds or several minutes. November is National Epilepsy Month, a good time to review basic facts about the condition.
Seven facts about epilepsy
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What causes epilepsy? Doctors cannot identify the cause in nearly two-thirds of cases, though genetics often plays a role. Other known causes include oxygen deprivation during childbirth, stroke, brain infections, head trauma, and tumors.
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How is epilepsy diagnosed? Diagnosis typically includes a medical history review, a full neurological exam, and tests such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain imaging (CT or MRI).
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What treatments are available? Many people control seizures with medication, which is often covered by insurance. Other options for some patients include surgery, nerve stimulation, and a ketogenic diet (high fat, very low carbohydrate).
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How many types of seizures are there? Seizures vary in severity but are commonly grouped into two types: primary generalized seizures, which involve both sides of the brain, and partial (focal) seizures, which begin in one area and may spread.
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Can an observer tell when someone is having a seizure? Some seizures are subtle—petit mal (brief staring spells) may look like rapid blinking or a momentary stare. Complex partial seizures can cause confusion and unresponsiveness for several minutes, while grand mal seizures involve loss of consciousness, falling, and muscle jerks.
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How can you help someone during a seizure? Do not restrain the person. Loosen tight clothing like a shirt collar, remove nearby sharp objects, and after convulsions stop, roll the person onto their side and stay close until they recover.
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Is epilepsy fatal? Many people with epilepsy live full lives. Deaths related to epilepsy are often due to other medical conditions, serious injuries sustained during a seizure, prolonged seizures, or abruptly stopping medication.
Have these facts taught you something new about epilepsy? Learn as much as you can during National Epilepsy Month and be ready to assist people you know who live with the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I see someone having a seizure?
Keep the person safe by removing nearby hazards, do not restrain them, loosen tight clothing, and roll them onto their side after convulsions stop; call emergency services if the seizure lasts more than five minutes or if multiple seizures occur.
Can epilepsy be cured?
Some people achieve long-term seizure freedom with medication or surgery, but outcomes vary and many manage epilepsy as a chronic condition with treatment.
Are all seizures obvious to bystanders?
No; some seizures are very brief or subtle, such as staring spells, and may be difficult for others to notice.
Is it safe for someone with epilepsy to drive?
Driving rules vary by location and individual medical circumstances, so people with epilepsy should follow their doctor's advice and local driving laws.