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Definition of epilepsy
Definition of seizure
Numbers affected
Treatment
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What is National Epilepsy Month?
National Family Caregivers Month is an annual national observance
that recognizes the unselfish and loving devotion of caregivers who devote
their time, energy, and support to help loved ones with disabilities or
chronic illnesses live in their communities. The first National Family
Caregivers Month was observed in November 2000, as a result of a proclamation
issued by the President of the United States.
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What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic condition that produces random, temporary changes
in the brain’s electrical activity. These changes cause seizures that
affect awareness, movement, or sensation. Epilepsy can be caused by brain
injuries or infections, high fever, lead or chemical poisoning, maternal
injury, or circulatory disorders such as stroke. Epilepsy is not a mental
illness and has no effect on mental functioning.
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What is a seizure?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrollable event that occurs when the brain’s
electrical system malfunctions. Instead of discharging energy in a controlled
manner, the brain’s cells keep firing, often randomly. Some seizures cause
a person to fall unconscious and shake. When it is over, the person may
feel sleepy and will not remember what happened. However, many seizures
involve only portions of the brain and result in a loss of attention;
distorted communication; staring spells that look like daydreaming; or
random, jerking movements in one part of the body. Most seizures last
only a minute or two. A person with epilepsy may have seizures only once
in a while or every day.
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How common is epilepsy?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, more than
2 million people in the United States have epilepsy. Approximately 300,000
are children or adolescents.
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How is epilepsy treated?
Although there currently is no cure for epilepsy, a number of
medications can help to bring seizures under control and to enable people
with epilepsy to lead normal lives. In fact, most people with epilepsy
(about 80 percent) can control their seizures with medication. In cases
where medication does not work, surgery or special diets are possible
options.
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