Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. It is a chronic non-communicable disease of the brain that affects people of all ages. Here are some key points about epilepsy:

• Seizures: Seizures are sudden surges of abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain that can affect how a person appears or acts. There are many types of seizures, including focal seizures that start in a particular part of the brain and generalized seizures that initially involve all areas of the brain.

• Diagnosis: A person may be diagnosed with epilepsy if they have two unprovoked seizures or one unprovoked seizure with a high risk of more. One seizure does not signify epilepsy. Before making a diagnosis, a healthcare provider will perform a physical exam, take a medical history, and may order blood work and other tests.

• Causes: Epilepsy can be caused by an imbalance of nerve-signaling chemicals called neurotransmitters, tumors, strokes, brain damage from illness or injury, or some combination of these. In the majority of cases, there may be no detectable cause for epilepsy.

• Treatment: Treatment for epilepsy typically involves medications to control seizures. In some cases, surgery may be an option. Other treatments, such as a special diet or nerve stimulation, may also be used.

• Prevalence: Epilepsy is common, affecting around 50 million people worldwide. In the United States, it is estimated that 1.2% of people have active epilepsy.