Epilepsy Epilepsy is a chronic (meaning it lasts for a long time) condition that is defined by seizures.1 But it is more than just seizures. Epilepsy is a sign of problems in the brain.2 People with epilepsy can have memory problems, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.2 Doctors have many ways to describe epilepsy. They can explain where the seizure is happening in the brain—either partial-onset or generalized. Partial-onset means that the seizures are caused by a small, specific part of the brain that is not working right3 (Partial is also a type of seizure). Generalized means that the problem is more widespread.3 Epilepsy can also be called benign or catastrophic. With benign epilepsies, the seizures are mild and do not occur often.4 Seizures happen much more often in catastrophic epilepsies and come with a greater risk of injury from falls.4 Catastrophic epilepsies are hard to treat and can affect a person socially.4 Having one seizure is not the same as having epilepsy. Seizures A seizure is caused by the brain’s electrical activity not working correctly.3 This can create uncontrolled muscle movements or loss of consciousness.3 A seizure happens very suddenly and is thought of as a single event.3 Remember, seizures and epilepsy are not the same. Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has 2 or more unprovoked seizures, so having one seizure is not the same as having epilepsy. There are many different kinds of epilepsies, and several options for treatment. A complete evaluation—including medical history, MRI and EEG tests, and close observation—is needed to diagnose and treat epilepsy.1 Learn more: Diagnosing LGS » References: 1.  Benbadis SR. Epileptic seizures and syndromes. Neurol Clin. 2001;19(2):251-270. 2.  van Rijckevorsel K. Cognitive problems related to epilepsy syndromes, especially malignant epilepsies. Seizure. 2006;15:227-234. 3.  Anderoli TE, Behrman RE, Bhattacharya B, et al, eds. Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 30th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2003:628. 4.  Camfield PR, Camfield CS. Epileptic syndromes in childhood: clinical features, outcomes, and treatment. Epilepsia. 2002;43(Suppl 3):27-32.

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