3M+
People in the U.S. Live with Active Epilepsy
Understanding Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder in which a person has an ongoing tendency to experience epileptic seizures. While epilepsy can arise from many different causes, seizures are generally classified as either focal or generalized. Epilepsy can affect people at any age, and its impact may extend beyond seizures to education, employment, independence, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Possible Signs and Symptoms
- Brief episodes of staring, reduced awareness, or difficulty responding to others
- Uncontrolled jerking, muscle stiffening, or sudden loss of muscle control
- Unusual sensations, emotions or changes in perception
- Repeated movements, such as lip smacking, chewing, or picking at clothing
- Confusion, tiredness, or memory difficulty after a seizure
1 in 26
People will develop epilepsy in their lifetime. It can affect anyone at any age, and it can occur on its own or alongside other brain conditions such as autism, stroke, or Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: Epilepsy Foundation
FAQs
What causes epilepsy?
Epilepsy can result from a variety of factors, including genetic changes, brain injuries, stroke, infections, developmental abnormalities, and other neurological conditions. In some individuals, the cause remains unknown. Advances in genetics have also identified specific genes and biological pathways that contribute to certain forms of epilepsy.
Is having a seizure the same as having epilepsy?
Not necessarily. A seizure can occur for many reasons and does not always mean that a person has epilepsy. A healthcare professional considers the circumstances of the event, the person’s medical history, and the likelihood of future seizures when making a diagnosis.
What is the difference between focal and generalized seizures?
Focal seizures begin in networks on one side of the brain. Depending on the area involved, they may cause unusual sensations, involuntary movements, emotional changes, repetitive behaviors, or changes in consciousness. Generalized seizures rapidly involve networks on both sides of the brain. They may cause staring, changes in consciousness, muscle stiffening, jerking movements, or sudden changes in muscle tone. In some cases, it may not initially be clear whether a seizure is focal or generalized.
Is epilepsy a lifelong condition?
Epilepsy does not follow the same course for everyone. Some people achieve long-term seizure control or experience remission, while others live with epilepsy throughout their lives and require ongoing treatment and monitoring. The long-term outlook depends on factors such as the underlying cause, epilepsy type and response to treatment.
Can epilepsy be controlled with medication?
Many people can control their seizures with antiseizure medicines, but some continue to have seizures or experience side effects. If this happens, talk with your healthcare team about reviewing your treatment and whether an epilepsy specialist could help. Depending on the type of epilepsy, other options may include medically supervised dietary therapy, devices that use electrical stimulation to help control seizures, or surgery. Do not stop or change your seizure medicine without talking with your healthcare professional.
How is epilepsy diagnosed?
Epilepsy is diagnosed based on a person’s medical history, a description of the events, and a clinical evaluation. Testing may include a neurological examination, electroencephalography (EEG) to record electrical activity in the brain, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look for potential structural causes. Blood tests, genetic testing, or other assessments may also be used in some cases. No single test is appropriate or conclusive for every person.
Where do focal seizures originate?
Focal seizures originate in a specific region of the brain, while generalized seizures involve networks across both brain hemispheres.
Explore More
Link to: Clinical Trials
Clinical Trials
Explore Praxis-sponsored research in epilepsy, including information about ongoing and completed clinical studies.
Link to: Expanded Access Policy
Expanded Access Policy
Read Praxis’ policy regarding requests for access to investigational therapies outside of clinical trials.
Link to: Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies
Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies
DEEs are rare, severe epilepsies that often begin in childhood and can affect development, cognition, movement, communication, and daily life.