Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. These seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can vary in severity, duration, and type. Some people experience brief lapses in awareness, while others have convulsions or muscle spasms.

Causes of Epilepsy

Epilepsy can have various causes, including:

• Genetic factors – Some forms of epilepsy run in families.

• Brain injuries – Trauma from accidents or strokes can trigger epilepsy.

• Infections – Meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis can cause seizures.

• Developmental disorders – Conditions like autism or cerebral palsy can be linked to epilepsy.

• Brain tumors or structural abnormalities – These can lead to seizure activity.

Types of Seizures

1. Focal (Partial) Seizures – Originate in one part of the brain and may or may not affect consciousness.

2. Generalized Seizures – Involve both hemispheres of the brain and include:

• Tonic-clonic (Grand mal) – Loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening, and jerking movements.

• Absence (Petit mal) – Brief lapses in awareness, common in children.

• Myoclonic – Sudden, brief muscle jerks.

• Tonic – Muscle stiffening without jerking.

• Atonic (Drop attacks) – Sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to falls.