Want to Know More?

Triggers - knowing your triggers can help you prepare

First Aid - what should you do if you see someone having a seizure?

Safety - lessen the risks of living with epilepsy

SUDEP - Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy

Seniors - sometimes, it's not just "getting older"

Research - what are the latest treatment options?

Women's Issues - hormones and seizures

Wellness Institute - self-care is critical to your health

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy–also known as a seizure disorder–is a chronic neurological disease characterized by a tendency to have recurrent seizures.
What is a Seizure?

A seizure is a brief, excessive discharge of electrical activity in the brain that alters Movement, Behavior, Sensation or Awareness.

How Common is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is the 4th most common neurological disease–more common than cerebral palsy, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis combined.

What is a Partial Seizure?

Partial seizures begin in only one part of the brain and awareness may be impaired or remain intact.

Types of partial seizures:

Simple partial

Complex partial

What is a Generalized Seizure?

Generalized seizures originate in both sides of the brain and awareness may be impaired.

Types of generalized seizures:

Tonic-clonic (formerly grand mal) 

Absence (formerly petit mal)

Myths & Facts

Myth: You should put a spoon, wallet or other object in the mouth during a seizure.

Fact: Never put anything in a person’s mouth during a seizure. Doing so can cause injury to the teeth or gums. A person cannot swallow his or her tongue during a seizure.

Myth: Epilepsy is contagious.

Fact: You cannot catch epilepsy from, or give it to, someone else.

MythSeizures are completely uncontrollable.

Fact: Through medication, diet or surgery, or a combination of these, people with epilepsy can achieve full or partial control of  their seizures in 85% of cases.

Support the Epilepsy Foundation by shopping at Amazon Smile.

Sign-up to Stay in Touch