Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes repeated seizures (fits), which are sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can start at any age. It is not caused by spirits or the evil eye, and it is not contagious. With the right daily medicine, most people with epilepsy stop having seizures and live normal lives.
Symptoms
Sudden falling, stiffening and jerking of the arms and legs
Loss of consciousness, sometimes with tongue biting or passing urine
Staring spells or brief absences with no response
Sudden jerks of an arm or leg
Strange feelings, smells or confusion before or after a seizure
Tiredness, headache and confusion after a seizure
Causes
Often no cause is found
Brain injury from a difficult birth, a head injury or a stroke
Brain infections such as meningitis
Family history
Brain tumours (rare)
Triggers in people with epilepsy: missed medicine, lack of sleep, fever, flashing lights
Prevention
Good care in pregnancy and childbirth reduces brain injury in newborns
Wear helmets and seat belts to prevent head injury
Talk to a doctor
Get advice by video, voice or chat without leaving home.
If you have epilepsy: take your medicine every day, sleep enough and avoid alcohol and drugs
Do not swim alone, climb heights or work near open fire until seizures are controlled
Treatment
Daily anti-seizure medicine prescribed by a doctor, usually for years
Take it at the same time every day and never stop it suddenly
Tests may include an EEG (brain wave test) and a brain scan
Regular follow-up to adjust the dose and check for side effects
Women planning pregnancy should talk to their doctor first, because some medicines need to be changed
Amulets and traditional remedies cannot replace medicine
Common questions
What should I do when someone has a seizure?
Stay calm, move hard objects away and put something soft under the head. Do not hold the person down and do not put anything in their mouth. When the jerking stops, turn them on their side and stay with them. Get emergency help if it lasts more than 5 minutes.
Can a person with epilepsy marry and have children?
Yes. Most people with epilepsy marry and have healthy children. Women should plan pregnancy with their doctor, take folic acid before pregnancy and never stop their medicine without advice.
