What is epilepsy?
A person with epilepsy suffers from repeated or recurrent seizures. A seizure is caused by a sudden increase in electrical activity in the brain. Seizures cause the brain to malfunction, often resulting in unconsciousness, convulsions, uncontrolled shaking, or changes in behavior. More than 3 million people in the USA have some form of epilepsy. The underlying cause for epilepsy is often not clear. In some cases, epilepsy may be associated with a prior head injury or infection (encephalitis).

What are the symptoms of epilepsy?
Symptoms of epilepsy include an aura, or a sensation that a seizure is going to occur. Other symptoms include staring, loss of awareness, loss of consciousness, convulsions, muscle spasms, tongue biting, and a short period of confusion following the seizure.

How does the doctor treat epilepsy?
Treatment for epilepsy may include a special diet and medications to lessen the frequency of seizures.