Epilepsy: Living with the Disease and Controlling Seizures

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by a predisposition to generate recurrent epileptic seizures. These seizures result from abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain. Estimates suggest that 50 million people worldwide are affected, making it one of the most common neurological diseases.

Types of seizures

Focal seizures begin in a limited area of the brain and can cause involuntary movements, strange sensations, or impaired consciousness. Generalized seizures involve both hemispheres simultaneously — the tonic-clonic seizure (formerly "grand mal") is the most spectacular with loss of consciousness, rigidity, and convulsions.

Diagnosis and treatment

Electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain MRI are key examinations. Antiepileptic drugs (levetiracetam, valproate, lamotrigine) control seizures in about 70% of patients. For resistant epilepsies, surgery, vagus nerve stimulation, or the ketogenic diet may be considered.

Living with epilepsy

Driving is subject to specific rules (seizure-free period required). Treatment adherence, sufficient sleep, and avoidance of triggers (alcohol, lack of sleep, stress) are essential. Stigma remains a major challenge: education and awareness are crucial.