In epilepsy, brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or abnormal behavior, sensations, and sometimes even loss of consciousness.

Regardless of race, ethnicity, or age, epilepsy can affect anyone. Both males and females are affected by epilepsy.

The symptoms of seizures can vary greatly. Some individuals with epilepsy stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others repeatedly twitch their arms or legs. Epilepsy is not always the result of a single seizure. In order to be diagnosed with epilepsy, a minimum of two seizures must occur within 24 hours of each other without a known trigger.

It is common for people with epilepsy to be able to control their seizures with medication or sometimes with surgery. Seizures may be lifelong for some individuals but gradually subside for others. Some children with epilepsy will eventually outgrow the condition as they grow older.