Epilepsy is a long-term neurological condition in which a person has a tendency to experience repeated seizures that are not caused by an immediate, reversible trigger. A seizure happens when there is a brief burst of unusual electrical activity in the brain.
Seizures can look very different. Some involve a change in awareness or a short period of staring; others cause stiffening, rhythmic movements, unusual sensations, or confusion afterwards. One seizure does not always mean that a person has epilepsy, so assessment by a healthcare professional is important.
Seizures can have many causes, including fever, low blood sugar, medication effects, or head injury. Epilepsy is diagnosed only after a careful review of the person’s history and test results.
Possible causes of epilepsy
Sometimes a clear cause can be identified, and sometimes no single cause is found. Factors associated with epilepsy may include:
- Genetic influences: inherited or newly occurring genetic changes can affect how brain cells communicate.
- Differences in brain development: changes that occur before or around birth may increase seizure risk.
- Head injury: a significant injury can leave changes in the brain that later contribute to seizures.
- Stroke or other brain conditions: damage, scarring, tumours, or other structural changes may be involved.
- Infections: some infections affecting the brain can lead to seizures.
Having one of these factors does not mean that a person will definitely develop epilepsy. A clinician considers the whole picture rather than one risk factor alone.
Symptoms and seizure types
Signs depend on which brain networks are involved. Possible features include:
- a brief pause, blank stare, or reduced response;
- repetitive movements such as lip smacking or hand movements;
- stiffening, jerking, or loss of muscle control;
- unusual smells, tastes, feelings, sensations, or a strong sense of familiarity;
- temporary confusion, tiredness, or difficulty speaking after the event.
Keeping a calm record of what happened, how long it lasted, and how the person recovered can help a clinician. A video should be recorded only when it is safe to do so and should never delay emergency help.
Diagnosis and tests
Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed account of the event, medical history, medicines, sleep patterns, and family history. A neurological examination may also be used. Tests are selected according to the person’s circumstances and may include:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): records electrical activity in the brain and may support classification of seizures.
- MRI or another brain scan: looks for structural changes that may be relevant.
- Blood tests: may help identify infection, metabolic problems, or other conditions.
- Additional monitoring: longer EEG recording or specialist assessments may be considered when the diagnosis remains uncertain.
Treatment and management
Treatment is individual. Anti-seizure medicines are often considered, with the choice guided by seizure type, age, other health conditions, possible interactions, and a person’s preferences. Some people need specialist care when seizures continue despite medicines. Options may include dietary therapy, implanted stimulation treatments, or surgery in carefully selected cases.
Medicines should be taken exactly as prescribed. Do not stop or change them without speaking with the prescribing clinician, because sudden changes can increase seizure risk. Regular sleep, a consistent routine, and avoiding known personal triggers may also help.
What to do during a seizure
Stay calm and protect the person from nearby hazards. Cushion the head if possible, loosen tight clothing around the neck, and note when the seizure starts. When movements stop, turn the person onto their side and stay with them until they are alert.
Do not restrain the person, put anything in their mouth, or give food, drink, or medicine until they are fully recovered. Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, repeats without recovery, causes serious injury, happens in water, or the person has trouble breathing afterwards. Seek urgent help for a first suspected seizure.
Reducing risk and living well
Not every case can be prevented, but risk can sometimes be reduced by using seat belts and helmets where appropriate, preventing falls, protecting children from avoidable head injuries, treating infections promptly, and managing vascular risk factors. For someone already diagnosed, taking prescribed medicine consistently and maintaining enough sleep are important parts of a safety plan.
Learn the pattern
Write down possible triggers, warning signs, duration, and recovery.
Plan ahead
Discuss medicines, activities, driving rules, and emergency steps with a clinician.
Review regularly
Share changes in seizures, side effects, sleep, or wellbeing at appointments.
References
This educational overview is informed by established public health and clinical epilepsy resources, including Epilepsy Foundation information on epilepsy and the Epilepsy Society. For personal concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Questions people often ask
Does one seizure mean epilepsy?
No. A seizure can have many causes. Epilepsy is diagnosed after a clinical assessment of recurring unprovoked seizures or a significant risk of recurrence.
Can epilepsy be treated?
Many people achieve good seizure control with treatment, although the most suitable approach differs from person to person.
Is epilepsy contagious?
No. Epilepsy is a neurological condition and cannot be passed from one person to another through contact.
Should something be put in a person’s mouth?
No. Never place an object, food, or drink in someone’s mouth during a seizure and do not try to hold them still.
When is a seizure an emergency?
Seek emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting more than five minutes, repeated seizures without recovery, serious injury, breathing difficulty, or a seizure occurring in water.