Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain, which can cause changes in behavior, movements or feelings, and in some cases, loss of consciousness. Seizures can vary in intensity and duration, from brief episodes of staring and muscle jerks in one part of the body to more prolonged convulsions involving the whole body.
Epilepsy can occur in any age group and is caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, genetic factors, and head trauma. In many cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. Treatment usually involves anti-epileptic medications and in some cases, surgery. There is no cure for epilepsy, but most people with the condition can lead active, productive lives and manage their epilepsy with the right treatment and lifestyle changes.
Epilepsy doctor expertise
An epilepsy doctor is a specialist in the diagnosis and management of seizures and epilepsy. Neurologists, psychiatrists, and epileptologists (doctors who specialize in epilepsy) may all provide expertise in this area. Other services provided may include counseling, education, and therapies aimed at reducing the risk of seizures and helping the patient live a healthy life.
Epilepsy pathologies
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Epilepsy is due to abnormal, excessive electrical signals in the brain, which can cause a variety of neurological symptoms including a loss of consciousness, confusion, and erratic movements. Common types of epilepsy include:
Generalized Epilepsy: This is the most common type of epilepsy and is characterized by a widespread deficit in cortical communication resulting in seizures that affect both sides of the brain and can be quite severe.
Focal Epilepsy: This type of epilepsy is characterized by abnormal electrical activity which originates from a single area of the brain, usually within the temporal lobe. Seizures associated with this type of epilepsy are usually less severe and can be treated with medications.
Idiopathic Epilepsy: This type of epilepsy is of unknown cause and can be either sporadic (occur without warning) or induced by certain activities or situations.
Progressive Epilepsy: This type of epilepsy is associated with a progressive decline in cognitive abilities, increased risk of seizures, and a number of other worrisome signs and symptoms.