Epilepsy, more commonly known as seizure disorder is a neurological disorder, affecting people of all age groups. Main tsymptoms of epilepsy include recurrent and unprovoked attacks of seizures. If not diagnosed and treated in time, Epilepsy can lead to serious complications.

he source of epilepsy is the electrical circuits in the brain. Abnormal electrical events in the brain can cause seizures of different kinds. Epilepsy can occur due to multiple reasons including complications during birth of the baby, brain injury, stroke, brain tumours, brain infections, and abnormal development of brain can be the main cause for epilepsy, although the exact reason may remain unknown in many of the cases. Epilepsy can sometimes be related to genetic factors as well.

Epilepsy symptoms can vary according to type of seizures. A focal seizure may originate from a specific part of the brain and will manifest accordingly. A big seizure or generalised seizure is the most common type of recognised seizures. However various other types include transient confusional state, state of starring look with unresponsiveness, some abnormal movements like chewing type, swallowing, rubbing hands, or speaking abnormally for a very brief period. Some of the seizures may have just up rolling of eyes with head and eyes going to one side and may have twisting of either arms or hands.

The common understanding and public perception regarding epilepsy is often a greater challenge than the seizures itself. Lack of awareness in general public, schools and various organizations leads to the stigma of epilepsy. A person with epilepsy should be able to disclose about epilepsy in a healthy and comfortable environment including schools, colleges, and working places.

Epilepsy Symptoms

he main symptom of epilepsy is recurrent seizures, but there are other signs and symptoms that may hint at epilepsy. These are:

• Abnormal twitching of one side of the body
• Briefly unresponsive behaviours.
• Sudden unexplained stiffening.
• Sudden chewing or blinking.
• Repetitive body movement that appears abnormal.
• A sudden fall for no reason
• Any repetitive confusional state
• Brief abnormal movements during sleep
• Sudden jerking of hands with dropping of objects

Epilepsy Causes

Brain injury causing scar in the brain

Brain infections

Brain tumor

Stroke or any bleeding in the brain

Brain abnormality by birth

Brain injury during delivery of the baby

Genetic factors in some cases

Prevention

Certain points can be taken care of to prevent the occurrence of epilepsy seizures:

• Manage your stress levels.
• Get proper sleep.
• Adhere to safety rules so as to minimise injury to head.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol.