Understanding Epilepsy

🧠 What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain's electrical activity. It's characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by sudden bursts of abnormal electrical signals in the brain.

What Causes Epilepsy?

Epilepsy can have many causes, though in about half of cases, the cause is unknown. Known causes include:

• Genetic factors – Some types of epilepsy run in families
• Brain injury – From accidents, strokes, or lack of oxygen
• Developmental disorders – Such as autism or certain genetic conditions
• Infections – Like meningitis, encephalitis, or brain abscess
• Brain tumors or structural abnormalities
• Prenatal factors – Brain damage before birth

⚡ Types of Seizures

Seizures are classified into two main categories based on where in the brain they begin: focal (partial) seizures and generalized seizures.

Focal (Partial) Seizures

These seizures start in one specific area of the brain. The person may or may not lose awareness.

Generalized Seizures

These seizures involve both sides of the brain from the start and usually cause loss of consciousness.

👀 Recognizing a Seizure

Seizures don't always look like dramatic convulsions. Learning to recognize different signs can help you respond appropriately.

Common Signs to Watch For

• Sudden falling or loss of balance
• Stiffening of the body or limbs
• Rhythmic jerking movements
• Staring blankly or appearing confused
• Unresponsiveness to questions or sounds
• Repetitive movements like lip smacking, chewing, or hand movements
• Sudden mood changes or unusual behavior
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Changes in breathing or skin color (may turn blue)

What a Seizure Might Look Like

Every seizure can be different, even in the same person. Here's what you might observe:

🤝 What to Do During a Seizure

Knowing how to respond can help keep the person safe and reduce your own anxiety. Remember: stay calm — most seizures end on their own within a few minutes.

First Aid Steps

1. Stay calm and stay with them Time the seizure. Note when it starts — this information is important for medical providers.
2. Keep them safe Move hard or sharp objects away. If they're standing or sitting, gently guide them to the floor if possible.
3. Cushion their head Place something soft under their head to prevent injury. A folded jacket or sweater works well.
4. Turn them on their side Once any jerking stops, gently turn them onto their side (recovery position). This helps keep the airway clear.
5. Stay until they're fully alert The person may be confused when they wake up. Speak calmly and reassure them. Stay with them until they've fully recovered.

📞 When to Call Emergency Services

Most seizures don't require emergency medical attention. However, there are situations when you should call for help immediately.

💜 Living with Epilepsy

With proper treatment and management, most people with epilepsy can live full, active lives. Here are some key points about managing epilepsy:

Treatment Options

• Medication – Anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are the most common treatment and work for about 70% of people
• Surgery – May be an option when seizures start in a specific area of the brain
• Dietary therapy – The ketogenic diet and other dietary approaches can help some people
• Devices – Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and other devices may help reduce seizures

Common Seizure Triggers

Many people can identify specific triggers that increase their likelihood of having a seizure:

• Missed medication – The most common trigger
• Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
• Stress and emotional upset
• Alcohol or drug use
• Flashing lights (photosensitivity) – affects about 3% of people with epilepsy
• Hormonal changes (menstrual cycle)
• Illness or fever
• Skipping meals or dehydration