About Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which activity in the brain becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness.

Symptoms

• Temporary confusion
• A staring spell
• Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
• Loss of consciousness or awareness
• Psychic symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu
• Staring blankly for a few seconds during a seizure
• Repeatedly twitching their arms or legs

At least two seizures are generally required for an epilepsy diagnosis.

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical help if any of the following occurs:

• The seizure lasts more than five minutes.
• Breathing or consciousness doesn’t return after the seizure stops.
• A second seizure follows immediately.
• You have a high fever.
• You’re experiencing heat exhaustion.
• You’re pregnant.
• You have diabetes.
• You’ve injured yourself during the seizure.

If it is your first experience having a seizure, seek medical advice.