Epilepsy
Epilepsy is caused by a sudden, brief change in the brain's electrical
activity. When brain cells are not working properly, actions, movement,
or consciousness may be altered for a short time. In medical terms, these
physical changes are called epilepsy, or recurrent seizures.
Some people can experience a seizure and not have epilepsy. For example,
children may have convulsions from high fevers; this type of seizure is
called a febrile convulsion. Other types of seizures not classified as
epilepsy include those caused by an imbalance of body fluids or chemicals,
or by alcohol or drug withdrawal. Seizures of this nature can, in certain
instances, develop into epilepsy if they continue to recur in the absence
of the initial cause.
Seizures can be generalized, meaning that all brain cells are involved.
One type of generalized seizure consists of a convulsion with a complete
loss of consciousness. Partial seizures occur when a smaller portion of
the brain is affected.
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