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Epilepsy Health Center

Epilepsy Overview

Epilepsy is a group of related disorders characterized by a tendency for recurrent seizures. There are different types of epilepsy and seizures. Epilepsy drugs are prescribed to control seizures, and rarely surgery is necessary if medications are ineffective.

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Predicting Success Rates for Epilepsy Drugs
Half of all epilepsy patients who are initially started on one anti-seizure drug remain seizure-free for at least a year, a new study confirms.

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Symptoms of Epilepsy and Seizures

Epilepsy Symptoms

Almost any type of behavior that happens repetitively may represent a seizure.

  • Generalized seizures: All areas of the brain (the cortex) are involved in a generalized seizure. Sometimes these are referred to as grand mal seizures.

    • To the observer, the person experiencing such a seizure may cry out or make some sound, stiffen for some seconds, then have rhythmic movements of the arms and legs. Often the rhythmic movements slow before stopping.
    • Eyes are generally open.

    • The person may not appear to be breathing. The person is often breathing deeply after an episode.

    • The return to consciousness is gradual and should occur within a few moments.

    • Loss of urine is common.

    • Often people will be confused briefly after a generalized seizure.


  • Partial or focal seizures: Only part of the brain is involved, so only part of the body is affected. Depending on the part of the brain having abnormal electrical activity, symptoms may vary. 
    • If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or jerking.

    • If other areas of the brain are involved, symptoms might include strange sensations or small repetitive movements such as picking at clothes or lip smacking.

    • Sometimes the person with a partial seizure appears dazed or confused. This may represent a partial complex seizure. The term complex is used by doctors to describe a person who is between being fully alert and unconscious.


  • Absence or petit mal seizures: These are most common in childhood.

    • Impairment of consciousness is present with the person often staring blankly.

    • Repetitive blinking or other small movements may be present.

    • Typically, these seizures are brief, lasting only seconds. Some people may have many of these in a day.

    • Other seizure types exist, particularly in very small children.
Symptoms of Epilepsy and Seizures