What is Epilepsy? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Types

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain which leads to seizures. It affects millions across the world. In India, it is estimated that around 0.5-1% of the population is affected by this neurological disorder. Characterised by faster heart rates, seizures, and changes in hearing and vision, epilepsy is a serious condition that can sometimes be fatal.

Consulting a doctor for an epilepsy diagnosis is essential for proper treatment and control of symptoms. This article discusses what epilepsy is, its types, causes, symptoms, and more.

What is Epilepsy?

It is a disorder of the brain that leads to recurrent seizures. It is often known as a seizure disorder and is a chronic (or long-term) condition that can affect anyone.

Seizures are often caused by damaged brain cells that produce abnormal electrical signals. They may last a few seconds to many minutes and can be challenging to recognise. Seizures can cause permanent damage or even death, and recognising them is vital to getting proper treatment.

An epilepsy diagnosis occurs when medical professionals can identify two or more seizures without any other underlying causes. While there is no cure for the condition, medications, therapies and other methods can be used to control it.

What are the Causes of Epilepsy?

Several factors can lead to this condition. The most common epilepsy causes include:

Serious illnesses, such as high fevers, HIV, meningitis, and strokes
Brain injuries, brain scarring, brain tumours and cysts, and head trauma
A lack of oxygen to the brain
Dementia
Prenatal injuries, malformations, and a lack of oxygen at birth
Genetic, developmental, and neurological diseases and disorders

What are the Types of Epilepsy?

There are four primary epilepsy types. These include:

1. Generalised Epilepsy

In this form of epilepsy, both sides of the brain (left and right) are affected. Individuals experience generalised seizures, which can be motor or non-motor. While it generally starts in childhood, it can affect adults as well. Some signs may be:

– Jerky movements and muscle twitching
– Weakness or limpness in the limbs
– Rigidness and tense muscles
– Epileptic spasms
– Suddenly staring into space or a stop in movement
– Brief twitching and fluttering eyelids

2. Focal Epilepsy

Focal epilepsy affects one section of the brain. Individuals with this condition experience focal seizures that can start in one area and move to other parts of the body. They often begin with minor symptoms (or an aura) that signify the seizure’s onset (like stomach uneasiness). Focal epilepsy symptoms include:

– Twitching, spasms, and jerking of the muscles muscle twitching
– Repetitive movements (such as clapping or chewing)
– Hot and cold waves
– A lack of movement
– Goosebumps, changes in thoughts and emotions

3. Combined Generalised and Focal Epilepsy

This form of epilepsy involves both focal and generalised seizures and includes symptoms of both. It is often linked to Dravet syndrome, caused by mutations in the SCN1A gene.

4. Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome

Often called LGS, this condition is a severe version of epilepsy that appears in childhood. It comes with several severe symptoms, such as:

– Learning and behavioural issues
– Seizures (starting with an aura, then changes in vision, mood and behaviour)
– Muscle stiffness
– Limp muscles
– Staring at nothing
– Full body convulsions
– Quick, jerky movements

5. Unknown Epilepsy

When the origin of a seizure is not identifiable, it is diagnosed as unknown epilepsy. This condition also comes with motor and non-motor symptoms, including:

– Stiffening of the body
– A loss of consciousness
– Convulsions, rapid and rhythmic jerking
– Blue tinge in the face caused by a lack of oxygen
– Loss of bladder or bowel control
– Sudden stop in movement and stillness
– Vacant stares

What Are Common Tests for Epilepsy?

Medical professionals will often take an individual’s medical history to determine an epilepsy diagnosis, along with neurological exams, blood tests, and more. Some tests for epilepsy include:

Blood Tests: These identify infectious diseases, glucose levels, and liver and kidney function.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): This is the most common test. It determines epilepsy by looking for abnormal electrical activity. It is the most common test used to diagnose epilepsy.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans are often used to look for tumours or other issues that may cause seizures in individuals.

If an individual presents with symptoms of epilepsy, it is essential to see a doctor at the earliest. For accurate epilepsy tests book a test from Dr Lal PatLabs.

FAQs

1. Is epilepsy hereditary?

Some genetic mutations (like SCN1A) are associated with epilepsy. The chances of developing epilepsy are higher if family members have this condition. However, epilepsy can develop in those without any family history of the disorder as well.