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Thursday, 24 July, 2025
Do you know? Millions of people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. It can affect people of all ages and often results in physical, social, and emotional difficulties. Even though epilepsy is so common, stigma and misunderstandings still surround it, making early identification and treatment impossible.
Epilepsy is nothing but a brain disease where nerve cells don’t signal properly, and it ends up causing seizures. But what exactly is epilepsy, and how is it different from a one-off seizure? We’ll cover all you need to know in this blog, including kinds, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and what to do in the event of an emergency seizure.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy, also known as a seizure disorder, is a long-term (chronic) neurological disorder that is followed by recurring seizures, brief periods of involuntary movement, sensation, or behavior triggered due to abnormal signals produced by damaged cells. In India, it's estimated that around 1 in 100 people are affected by epilepsy.
However, living with epilepsy can vary significantly from one individual to another. Some may have frequent seizures, while others may go months or years without an episode. This variability makes the condition complex and calls for personalized medical attention.
However, it's important to comprehend that having a single seizure doesn't mean you have epilepsy. To be diagnosed with epilepsy, a person must experience at least 2 unprovoked seizures, which often point to a deeper neurological imbalance. Now, you might be thinking What are these seizures that have been mentioned here quite a few times?
What are Seizures?
Seizures are a surge of sudden, uncontrolled, abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This condition alters or disrupts the way messages are transmitted between brain cells. These electrical bursts can affect a person’s behavior, movements, and emotions. Seizures can vary significantly in severity and appearance, depending on the area of the brain that is affected. Not all seizures look the same. Some seizures are hardly noticeable, while others can result in a temporary loss of consciousness (passing out) and uncontrollable movements (convulsions).
Since many factors might disrupt the normal electrical pathways in your brain, there are several potential causes of seizures. These can be anything from variations in your blood sugar levels to disease, trauma, or underlying issues.
Are All Seizures Epilepsy?
Not All Seizures Indicate Epilepsy
While seizures are the hallmark symptom of epilepsy, not all seizures mean a person has epilepsy. Many seizures occur as isolated incidents triggered by specific, reversible causes. These are referred to as acute symptomatic seizures or provoked seizures, and they differ from epileptic seizures, which are typically unprovoked and recurrent.
Common causes of non-epileptic seizures include:
- High fever (febrile seizures) in children
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Withdrawal from alcohol or drugs
- Electrolyte imbalances, such as low sodium
- Sleep deprivation
- Severe infections or brain injuries
In these cases, the seizure is a symptom of an underlying temporary issue. Once the issue is resolved, the seizure usually doesn’t recur. That's why a single seizure doesn’t automatically mean epilepsy. Doctors typically diagnose epilepsy only if a person has had two or more unprovoked seizures, or if tests show a high risk of recurrence.
It's also worth noting that psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) may look like epileptic seizures but are caused by psychological factors, such as stress or trauma. These require a different approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Why this matters: Understanding the difference between types of seizures helps prevent misdiagnosis and ensures people receive the right treatment, whether that’s medication for epilepsy or treating the underlying cause of a one-time seizure.
Provoked vs Unprovoked Seizures
| Aspect | Provoked Seizures | Unprovoked Seizures |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Seizures triggered by an identifiable and temporary cause | Seizures that occur without any immediate or obvious trigger |
| Examples of Causes | High fever, low blood sugar, alcohol or drug withdrawal, electrolyte imbalance | Often no clear cause; may be due to underlying brain dysfunction |
| Occurrence | Usually, one-time events or limited to the duration of the trigger | Can recur unpredictably and are more likely to become chronic |
| Diagnosis | Not usually diagnosed as epilepsy | Two or more unprovoked seizures typically lead to an epilepsy diagnosis |
| Treatment Approach | Address and treat the underlying cause; short-term monitoring | May require long-term management with medication, lifestyle changes, and follow-up |
| Prognosis | Often resolves once the cause is treated | May persist and require continuous care |
What Are the Different Types of Seizures?
Seizure categories are based on where they start in your brain, your level of awareness during a seizure, and by presence or absence of muscle movements. Healthcare professionals classify epilepsies by their types of seizures. These types help you in identifying and managing epilepsy more effectively. The classification of seizures into generalized, focal, and non-epileptic types allows for more targeted treatment plans.
Generalized Seizures (generalized onset seizures)
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, are surges of abnormal nerve discharges throughout the cortex of the brain, more or less at the same time. The most common cause is an imbalance in the “brakes” (inhibitory circuits) and “accelerator” (excitatory circuits) of electrical activity in the brain. These also involve muscle stiffening (tonic phase) followed by rhythmic jerking (clonic phase), and they can last for several minutes.
Focal, or Partial Seizures
Also known as focal epileptic seizures, these start in one area of the brain and affect the parts of the body controlled by that area of the brain, and can cause unusual sensations, muscle twitching, or confusion. Some people remain fully conscious, while others may lose awareness briefly.
Unknown onset seizure
This diagnosis is given when, even after repeated investigations like MRI and EEG, there isn't enough evidence to classify the epilepsy as focal or generalized. When the episode of seizure is not witnessed by any bystanders or in case of inconclusive investigation, the seizure is classified as an "unknown" onset seizure.
What Causes Epilepsy and Seizures?
The cause of epilepsy is unknown in half of all cases. Genetics (family history) is known to play an important role. Several factors can lead to epilepsy and different types of seizures. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective management.
1. Genetic Factors
The probability of getting epilepsy may be increased by a family history of epileptic episodes. While environmental variables may also have an impact on hereditary epilepsy, some types of epilepsy are associated with certain genes.
2. Brain Injury From Trauma or Surgery
Epilepsy may occur from long-term brain damage brought on by brain surgery or head trauma from accidents. Electrical signals in the brain can be interfered with by even mild lesions, particularly if scar tissue develops.
3. Metabolic and Infectious Causes
Seizures can be brought on by infections like meningitis or encephalitis, or by metabolic abnormalities like hypoglycemia. These are common causes of fits in both children and adults and may require immediate medical intervention.
4. Developmental Brain Abnormalities
Symptoms of epilepsy in early childhood can also lead to structural issues in the brain present from birth. However, MRI is frequently used to diagnose conditions like brain abnormalities or cortical dysplasia.
5. Unknown or Cryptogenic Causes
The precise origin of epilepsy, or what causes epileptic seizures, can often be unclear. These are referred to as idiopathic or cryptogenic instances. Even if the cause of these instances remains unknown, they may still be controlled with the right care.
How is Epilepsy Diagnosed?
Technically, if you experience two or more seizures that weren’t caused by a known medical condition. For example, from alcohol withdrawal or low blood sugar, you’re considered to have epilepsy. Nonetheless, timely and accurate diagnosis is key to effective epilepsy treatment. A combination of clinical history, neurological evaluation, and diagnostic tests mentioned below helps confirm the condition on medical grounds:
1. Neurological Examination
To rule out other disorders, a thorough assessment of cerebral function, motor abilities, and sensory reactions is necessary. Any examination of seizures usually begins with this phase. The neurologist examines mental acuity, reflexes, muscular tone, and coordination. These observations can help determine if symptoms are indicative of epilepsy or another neurological condition, as well as where parts of the brain may be affected. Before moving on to more sophisticated tests like EEG or MRI, it offers crucial context.
2. Electroencephalogram (EEG)
This technique, which captures brain activity, is frequently used to validate seizure patterns in epileptics. It assists in determining the kind of seizure and the area of the brain that is impacted. To capture electrical impulses from the brain, tiny electrodes are applied to the scalp. The test can be administered either awake or sleeping, and it occasionally incorporates stimuli like flashing lights or hyperventilation. In order to record aberrant brain activity over several hours or days, a long-term EEG can be suggested.
3. Brain Imaging Tests
Have you ever thought or come across what causes seizures in adults for the first time? So, when adults have seizures for the first time, structural problems, including tumors, scarring, or anomalies, may be discovered by CT or MRI scans. Finding lesions or indications of prior trauma is one area in which advanced imaging is very helpful. MRI offers fine-grained pictures that aid in determining underlying reasons, such as congenital brain abnormalities, vascular malformations, or brain stroke. Particularly when seizures start in adulthood or when their pattern or severity changes, these tests are essential.
4. Blood Tests and Other Investigations
These help identify illnesses, infections, or genetic disorders that may be causing seizures. If clinical suspicion is present, other testing could be requested. A blood test can detect harmful chemicals, infections, autoimmune reactions, liver or renal problems, and more. To find uncommon causes, genetic screening or spinal fluid analysis (lumbar puncture) may be required. Reversible or systemic causes of seizure activity are frequently ruled out with the aid of these laboratory tests.
For comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment options, visit a trusted neuro hospital in Bangalore that specializes in seizure and epilepsy care.
Epilepsy Treatment Options
Medications
Depending on the kind of epilepsy and seizure pattern, doctors frequently prescribe anti-seizure drugs. Medication and follow-up must be done consistently to lower the frequency and intensity of seizures. The decision among the more than 20 anti-epileptic medications (AEDs) relies on several variables, including age, general health, the kind of seizure, and possible adverse effects. A combination of drugs or dose changes may be necessary for certain people to improve control. Because skipping doses or discontinuing suddenly might result in breakthrough seizures or worsened symptoms, medical monitoring is always essential.
Lifestyle Modifications
Getting adequate sleep, managing stress, avoiding alcohol, and sticking to medication schedules are crucial parts of managing epilepsy. Lifestyle changes can enhance the effectiveness of medical treatment. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and limiting screen time before bed can help stabilize brain activity. Patients are also advised to maintain a consistent daily routine and avoid known seizure triggers, such as flashing lights or dehydration. In some cases, adopting practices like yoga or mindfulness meditation has been shown to improve seizure control and reduce anxiety levels.
Psychosocial Support and Counseling
The key to treating epilepsy is getting enough sleep, controlling stress, abstaining from alcohol, and taking medications on time. Lifestyle modifications can improve the efficacy of medical interventions. Stabilizing brain activity may be achieved with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and reduced screen time before bed. A regular daily schedule and avoiding recognized seizure triggers, such as flashing lights or dehydration, are also recommended for patients. Adopting techniques like yoga or mindfulness meditation has been demonstrated to lower anxiety levels and enhance seizure control in certain situations.
Surgical Options
Patients may consider surgery in some situations when medicine is unable to manage seizures. Find out more about the benefits of surgery for epilepsy and how it can provide long-term relief. Resective surgery involves eliminating the area of the brain that causes seizures, whereas disconnection techniques involve stopping the seizure pathway. For certain individuals, further options include responsive neurostimulation (RNS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Only when the seizure focus is determined and does not interfere with essential brain activities are these treatments usually advised following extensive testing.
If you’re looking for medical attention, consider epilepsy care at Kauvery Hospital, Bangalore, where personalized plans and compassionate support are at the core of patient care.
First Aid for Seizures
Knowing epilepsy first aid can make a huge difference:
- Stay calm and time the seizure.
- Keep them safe and protect them from injury.
- Place something soft under their head and loosen any tight clothing.
- Gently lay the person and roll them on their side (if they have food or fluid in their mouth, roll them onto their side immediately).
- Do not put anything in their mouth.
- Seek emergency help if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
Educating family, friends, and colleagues about seizure first aid empowers the community and improves safety for those living with epilepsy.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a specialist if:
- You've had more than one seizure
- Your seizures are unprovoked
- You experience a new type of seizure as an adult
To identify the underlying problem and start the appropriate treatment strategy, it's critical to have a neurologist in Bangalore analyze you. You may recover control of your life and avoid issues with early action.
Conclusion
Understanding and gaining knowledge about what epilepsy is, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can be life-changing. From knowing the meaning of seizure to identifying early warning signs, awareness plays a powerful role in management.
If you suspect or come across someone having an epileptic fit, act fast and provide the right first aid at the right time. And with care and expert support at the right time, people with epilepsy can lead safe, fulfilling, and normal lives. Whether you’re managing focal seizures, exploring the types of epilepsy, or asking, “What causes epilepsy?”, you’re not alone. We’re here to help.
Empower yourself with knowledge and never hesitate to seek medical advice from professionals when dealing with seizures. A little bit of awareness saves a lot of lives.
FAQ’s
1. Can you have a seizure and not have epilepsy?
Yes, a person without epilepsy may experience a single seizure as a result of a head injury, low blood sugar, or a high temperature.
2. How do doctors know if it’s epilepsy or not?
Doctors diagnose epilepsy based on medical history, neurological exams, and tests like EEG or brain imaging tests to confirm repeated, unprovoked seizures.
3. What are the warning signs of a seizure?
Warning signs may include confusion, staring spells, unusual sensations (like smells or sounds), muscle jerking, or loss of awareness.
4. Can epilepsy go away on its own?
In some cases, especially in children, epilepsy can go into resolution over time, but ongoing medical evaluation is needed to confirm.
