Understanding the Basics
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition involving an ongoing tendency to have epileptic seizures. It can begin at any age, and the experience is different for each person.
About this information: This webpage is subject to continuous review by Epilepsy Ontario to help keep the information current. Updates may be in progress. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider about your own health and care.
An Important Distinction
What is the Difference Between a Seizure and Epilepsy?
A seizure is an event.
An epileptic seizure results from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can temporarily affect movement, awareness, sensations, emotions or behaviour.
Not all seizures involve shaking or a loss of consciousness.
Epilepsy is a condition.
Epilepsy involves an enduring tendency to have epileptic seizures. Having one seizure does not automatically mean someone has epilepsy.
A healthcare professional considers the circumstances and risk of further seizures when making a diagnosis.
Who has Seizures?
People of any age can experience a seizure. A seizure may occur in connection with an acute illness, brain injury, a metabolic disturbance or another medical issue. It may also occur without an immediately identifiable cause.
A seizure needs medical assessment to understand what happened and what care is needed. Epilepsy is one possible explanation, but it is not the only one.
Does diagnosis always require two seizures?
No. Epilepsy may be diagnosed after two unprovoked seizures more than 24 hours apart, after one seizure when the risk of further seizures is sufficiently high, or when an epilepsy syndrome is diagnosed. Reflex seizures are also included in the clinical definition.
These criteria require clinical assessment. They are not a checklist for diagnosing yourself.
Understanding Why
Causes of Epilepsy
Epilepsy has many possible causes. More than one factor may be involved, and sometimes the cause remains unknown.
Different causes
Causes may be structural, genetic, infectious, metabolic or immune-related. Examples include certain genetic conditions, stroke, brain injury or infections affecting the brain.
Unanswered questions
Not everyone receives an explanation for why their epilepsy developed. Your healthcare provider can discuss what is known about your situation and whether further investigation is appropriate.
Care & Treatment
Epilepsy can be treated.
Anti-seizure medications help many people control their seizures. Other options may be considered when seizures continue, including specialist assessment for surgery or other treatments.
Treatment depends on the individual. Discuss your options with your healthcare provider, and do not stop or change prescribed medication without their guidance.
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