General Epilepsy Information

General Information

Epilepsy is a common neurological condition, which affects the central nervous system. Epilepsy, also known as a seizure disorder, affects approximately 2.5 million Americans, with an estimated 17,000 people right here in central Illinois.

Epilepsy means that a person has recurring seizures. Seizures are sudden, brief changes in the normal functioning of the brain’s electrical system. During a seizure, more than the usual amount of electrical energy passes between cells in the brain. Seizures vary from a momentary disruption of the senses, to short periods of unconsciousness or staring spells, to convulsions.

The cause of epilepsy is typically unknown. Epilepsy can be related to anything that affects the brain including an injury, stroke or tumor. Sometimes epilepsy is inherited.

Epilepsy usually does not get worse with time. People with epilepsy can expect to live a normal life span.

The treatment for seizures include medication, surgery, diet (primarily in children), or the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). The VNS is a device that uses electrical stimulation on the vagus nerve, a large nerve leading to the brain. Doctors treat epilepsy primarily with drugs called antiepileptic medications.

Epilepsy and children- Information for Parents

If your child has epilepsy, it is important to learn as much as possible about your child’s seizures and help you child understand their condition as well.

Parents have the challenge of finding the balance between safety and overprotection.

Families that are open and accepting, and help the child build on strengths, can make a positive difference in the child's life.

Adolescence is already a difficult time. Often teens with epilepsy face additional challenges pertaining to driving and telling their friends about epilepsy.

Epilepsy and Seniors- It’s not what you think!

Epilepsy can be difficult to recognize. Symptoms of the disorder can be very subtle and may be mistaken for “senior moments”.

People aged 65 years and older are the fastest-growing group in America to develop epilepsy.

The disorder often develops as a result of common health problems in the elderly including strokes, certain types of cancers, tumors, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, brain surgery, or arteriosclerosis.

As the number of persons over the age of 65 continues to expand, recognition and treatment of epilepsy in this population is vital.