Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can produce brief disturbances in the normal electrical functions of the brain. When someone has epilepsy, the normal pattern of brain activity may be interrupted by bursts of electrical energy that are much more intense than normal. They may affect a person's consciousness, bodily movements or sensations for a short time. About 2 million Americans have epilepsy, including males and females and people of all races and ages. Seizures can start at any age, but often they begin before age 15 or after age 65. For people who are diagnosed with epilepsy, most of them can control their seizures by taking medicines. Learn more about the condition of epilepsy with information on causes, symptoms, history, and treatments.