A person is said to have epilepsy when he or she has had two or more seizures. As this eMedTV article explains, epilepsy occurs when neurons in the brain signal abnormally. This page offers an overview of this brain disorder.
Temporal lobe epilepsy, absence epilepsy, and neocortical epilepsy are just a few of the forms of epilepsy. This eMedTV article offers descriptions of many of the various epilepsy types, including information on the types seen primarily in children.
The cause of epilepsy may be head trauma, poisoning, or one of many other possible causes. This eMedTV article explores factors that can cause this disorder and explains the role that genetics may play in the development of epilepsy.
Scientists studying genes and epilepsy found at least twelve forms of epilepsy to have some genetic basis. This eMedTV article explores the latest research into genes and epilepsy, including the development of more effective anticonvulsant treatment.
Blackouts and involuntary arm and leg movements are possible epilepsy symptoms. As this eMedTV article explains, perhaps the most well-known symptom is a convulsive seizure. However, this article describes several signs and symptoms of the condition.
As this eMedTV article explains, tests that are used in making an epilepsy diagnosis include brain scans, blood tests, and an EEG (electroencephalogram). This page provides detailed information about how doctors go about diagnosing epilepsy.
Examples of epilepsy treatments include medications, surgery, and a ketogenic diet. This eMedTV article offers an overview of several treatments for this condition and stresses the importance of accurate diagnosis in determining proper management.
Preventing epilepsy can involve taking medications, avoiding head injuries, and getting good prenatal care. This eMedTV page explores these and other methods of epilepsy prevention, such as treating medical conditions (such as high blood pressure).
Most women with epilepsy are able to become pregnant and give birth to normal, healthy babies. This eMedTV resource provides details about epilepsy and pregnancy, including several important recommendations for those who are considering pregnancy.
As this eMedTV page explains, epilepsy research is currently focused on improving understanding of the brain and exploring new treatment options. This article discusses a variety of research studies on this condition, with information on the findings.
