Epilepsy (Fits)

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy (fits) is a neurological disorder characterized by a tendency to have recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizures are sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy can affect individuals of any age and may occur due to genetic factors, brain injuries, infections, or sometimes with no identifiable cause.

Symptoms of Epilepsy

Epileptic seizures can manifest in various ways, including:

• Temporary confusion, staring episodes, or rapid eye blinking (especially in children)
• Jerking movements of the arms and legs or stiffening of the body
• Brief loss of consciousness

Causes of Epilepsy

• Neurological causes such as head injury, stroke, or brain tumors
• Brain infections, including meningoencephalitis
• Family history of epilepsy, increasing the risk
• Developmental disorders or brain damage occurring during childbirth
• Idiopathic epilepsy, where no specific cause is identified

Types of Epilepsy

Epileptic seizures are broadly classified into two main types:

• Generalized Epilepsy:

  This type affects the entire brain simultaneously. Common forms include tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal) and absence seizures. During a tonic-clonic seizure, a person may lose consciousness and experience violent muscle contractions.

• Focal Epilepsy:

  These seizures begin in a specific part of the brain and may stay localized or spread to other areas.

Treatment Options for Epilepsy

Managing epilepsy involves different treatment approaches based on individual needs and response:

• Anti-seizure Medications:

  A wide range of medications are available and can effectively control seizures in many individuals.

• Surgical Interventions:

  For individuals whose seizures do not respond to medications, surgical treatment may be considered after detailed evaluation.

• Dietary Changes:

  In cases of drug-resistant epilepsy, dietary therapies such as the ketogenic diet may be helpful.