What is Epilepsy (Fits)? Types & Treatment

What is Epilepsy (Fits)? Types & Treatment

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition in which a person experiences repeated seizures or fits due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden jerking or shaking of the body
  • Loss of awareness
  • Staring spells
  • Temporary confusion
  • Uncontrollable movements
  • Sudden fall followed by unconsciousness

Types of Seizures

Generalized Seizures

Affect both sides of the brain.

  • Tonic-clonic (full body shaking)
  • Absence seizures (blank staring)

Focal Seizures

Affect one part of the brain.

  • Simple focal (awareness preserved)
  • Complex focal (impaired awareness)

Causes of Epilepsy

  • Brain injury
  • Stroke
  • Genetic conditions
  • Infections (meningitis)
  • Brain tumors
  • Unknown cause (in many cases)

Treatment Options

  • Anti-epileptic medications
  • Lifestyle adjustments
  • Avoiding triggers like lack of sleep or stress
  • Surgery (for some severe cases)
  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation therapy