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Epilepsy (Seizures)
Epilepsy is a condition where a person has a tendency to repeated seizures — bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures vary from brief lapses to full-body convulsions.
Causes & risk factors
- Often no clear cause is found
- Previous brain injury, stroke or infection
- Brain tumours or scarring
- Genetic factors
- Problems with brain development
- Sometimes triggered by lack of sleep, alcohol or flashing lights
Common symptoms
- Convulsions (jerking movements)
- Blank staring spells
- Loss of awareness or consciousness
- Unusual sensations before a seizure (aura)
- Stiffening or sudden falls
- Confusion after an episode
Tests & diagnosis
- EEG (brain wave test)
- MRI brain
- CT scan
- Blood tests
- Electrolytes
Treatment & management
- Anti-seizure medicines control seizures in most people
- Identifying and avoiding personal triggers such as lack of sleep
- Safety measures at home, at work and when swimming or driving
- Surgery or other therapies in selected drug-resistant cases
- Regular review to adjust treatment
When to see a doctor urgently
- A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or one seizure straight after another — call your local emergency number now
- A first-ever seizure, or a seizure with injury or breathing trouble — call your local emergency number now
- A change in your usual seizure pattern
- Side effects from seizure medicines
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if someone has a seizure?
Keep them safe: cushion the head, remove nearby hazards, and turn them on their side once jerking stops. Do not put anything in the mouth. Call emergency services if it lasts over 5 minutes or repeats.
Can people with epilepsy live a normal life?
Yes. With the right medicine most people become seizure-free or well controlled and lead full lives, though some activities like driving may have rules until seizures are controlled.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.