Epilepsy

Two kids

  • Epilepsy is one of the most common disorders of the nervous system.
  • It affects people of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds.
  • More than 3 million Americans of all ages are living with epilepsy.
  • Every year, 181,000 Americans will develop seizures and epilepsy for the first time.
  • It can develop at any time of life, especially in early childhood and old age.

QuickStart Guides

Special starter references if you are newly diagnosed or a parent of a child with epilepsy.

Seizure First Aid

First aid for seizures is simple. Keep calm and make sure the person having the seizure is comfortable and safe from harm.

Types of Seizures

There are many different types of seizures: including ones affecting the whole brain (convulsions) and ones only impacting a part of the brain.

Medication

Medicines are the most common type of epilepsy treatment.

Surgery

For some individuals, medication does not work well against seizures. Doctors may consider brain surgery as a means of treatment.

Employment Issues

People with epilepsy may face barriers to getting and keeping a job.

Driving

States have different driving rules and requirements for people with epilepsy.