Similarities and Differences
Seizuresare the main symptom ofepilepsy.
However, theres a difference between having a single seizure and having a diagnosis of epilepsy.
Epilepsy is also described as a seizure disorder.
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People who have epilepsy have an underlying and permanent alteration in the brain that causes a predisposition to seizures.
Main Similarities
The symptoms of a single seizure are the same as those of epilepsy.
Examples of symptoms that occur along with non-epileptic seizures include:
When Do Seizures Become Epilepsy?
Usually, seizures do not cause epilepsy, but they can be a sign of epilepsy.
This is because a seizure can occur due to a temporary or permanent condition affecting brain function.
Epilepsy happens when a person has certain types of permanent damage in a region of the brain.
Anyone can have a seizure due to severe alterations in neurotransmitters or chemical concentrations in the brain.
Causes and Risk Factors
Certain medical conditions can cause epilepsy and others may cause an individual seizure.
Some causes may overlap and could lead to either one isolated seizure or epilepsy.
Seizure Treatment
If you have a seizure, its important to get prompt treatment.
This may includerapid-acting antiepileptic medication, oxygen supplementation, and checking for any seizure-related injuries.
You would also need treatment for any underlying cause, such as electrolyte abnormalities or a brain tumor.
It’s also important that you maintain lifestyle adjustments to avoid seizure triggers.
Commonantiepileptics (AEDs)for people who have epilepsy include:
Over 40 approved AEDs are available.
Put something soft under their head to protect it (like a folded item of clothing).
Prevention
Prevention is a primary component of managing epilepsy.
Prevention includes lifestyle adjustments and medications.
Preventing Infection
If you have epilepsy, be vigilant about avoiding infectious illnesses.
Even a mild respiratory infection can trigger a seizure for someone who has epilepsy.
Ways to prevent infection include:
Even with these measures, its not uncommon to catch an infection.
Summary
Epilepsy is a medical condition that causes people to have recurrent seizures.
Many people can experience a seizure, even without having epilepsy.
Sometimes, an individual seizure is a sign of a new diagnosis of epilepsy.
Epilepsy is treated with daily antiepileptic medications to prevent seizures and lifestyle measures to avoid triggers.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Managing epilepsy.
Epilepsy Foundation.Diet and exercise to reduce seizures.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.First aid for seizures.
Epilepsy Foundation.Other illnesses as a seizure trigger.
