What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and causes recurrent seizures.
A seizure happens when there is a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. This can temporarily affect how a person moves, feels, behaves or becomes aware of their surroundings.
Epilepsy can affect people of all ages. Some people have frequent seizures, while others may have them rarely or only under certain conditions.
It is important to understand that:
- Not all seizures involve shaking or convulsions
- Epilepsy is not contagious
- Many people with epilepsy live full and active lives
- First aid varies by seizure type
Key Points
A seizure is a symptom
Epilepsy is a condition
Seizures vary in type & severity