An overviewÂ
OverÂ
individuals with epilepsy in the UK (approximately)*
AroundÂ
people are diagnosed with epilepsy (approximately)*
What is epilepsy?Â
It is a neurological condition which affects the brain. It is also considered a physical disability due to seizures affecting the body.
What is a seizure?
Electrical activity occurs in the brain all the time. A seizure occurs when there is a sudden increase of electrical activity within the brain.
Is the cause always known?
There are several causes of seizures from stoke, brain damage, being deprived of oxygen and more. However, the cause is unfortunately not always known.
How many types of seizures are there?
There are over 40 different types and presentations of seizures. This is why you may see different signs and presentations of seizures.
What is the difference between focal and generalised?
A focal seizure occurs on one side of the brain, though it can spread to both sides. Whereas, a generalised seizure affects both sides of the brain from the outset.
What are some common types of seizures?
Tonic
Tonic
A tonic seizure is where an individuals muscles stiffen.
Clonic
Clonic
A clonic seizure is where an individuals limbs jerk.
Tonic Clonic
Tonic Clonic
A tonic clonic seizure is where an individuals muscles stiffen (tonic) and limbs jerk (clonic).
Myoclonic
Myoclonic
A myoclonic seizure is where an individuals limbs jerk for a fraction of a second. They can also occur in clusters with several seizures lasting several minutes.
Atonic
Atonic
An atonic seizure is where an individuals limbs go floppy and they typically fall to the ground. It is also known as a ‘drop attack’.
Reflex
Reflex
Reflex seizures occur when they have been triggered by something. For example, photosensitive epilepsy.
Can an individual only have motor symptoms?
Symptoms vary from person to person, however depending on their seizures, they can have motor and non-motor symptoms. Motor symptoms can include limbs jerking or going floppy, lip-smacking and more. Whilst non-motor symptoms can include an unusual smell or taste, feeling sick, numbness or tingling and many others.
What are some common triggers of seizures?
Triggers also vary from person to person. Though common triggers can include:
- stress
- forgetting to take epilepsy medication
- tiredness
- alcohol and recreational drugs
There are many more too.
What are AEDs?
AEDs also known as Anti-Epileptic Drugs, are used to control seizures. They are not used to stop seizures. Instead they aim to decrease the length or reduce the amount of seizures. Unfortunately, some individuals can become drug resistant and therefore require alternatives. Some individuals may never gain control over their epilepsy.
Did you know?
Photosensitive epilepsy is thought to be common. However, it currently only accounts for approximately 3% of the population.**
Check out these resources:
- Epilepsy Action – About – click here
- Epilepsy Society – Facts and statistics – click here
References
Epilepsy Research UKÂ (n.d.) Statistics*
Epilepsy Society (2018) Did you know…? – factsheet 2**Â
Want to learn more?
We can provide awareness training via face to face or virtual learning for groups and organisations.
Epilepsy Awareness
Click to view our epilepsy awareness training.
