Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder in which the activity of neurons in the brain is disrupted. Epilepsy causes seizures, periods of unusual emotions or unusual behavior, sensations, convulsions, muscle spasms, or unconsciousness. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder.
Some types of Epilepsy can be passed down in families. Head traumas can also cause Epilepsy. Tumors, strokes, and other brain conditions that cause damage to the brain can also cause Epilepsy. Some infectious diseases can cause Epilepsy. These diseases include meningitis, AIDS, and viral encephalitis. People can get Epilepsy if they are injured before birth. If a mother has an infection the child can suffer brain damage and develop Epilepsy. Also if the child doesn’t receive enough oxygen or enough nutrients in the womb the child can suffer brain damage and develop Epilepsy. Epilepsy has been associated with developmental disorders such as, autism.
Symptoms of Epilepsy include jerky movements, dizziness, staring, repetitive movements, confusion, and emotional changes. Unconsciousness, loss of bladder control, stiffening of the body, and biting of the tongue are also symptoms of Epilepsy.
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The doctor will then perform a neurological examination. The doctor will be looking for abnormalities in the patient’s behavior, motor abilities, and mental function. The doctor will then run blood test. This test will reveal any infections or genetic conditions that may have cause the seizures. The doctor may use a test called an Electroencephalogram (EEG). In an EEG doctors attach electrodes to the head in order to record electrical activity in the brain. Patients with Epilepsy have abnormal electrical activity in the brain. An MRI or a CT scan can be used to detect abnormalities in the brain that may be causing the