In the United States, about 3.4 million people suffer from epilepsy. Epilepsy occurs as a result of genetic disorder or from a brain injury, such as a stroke or trauma. This neurological disorder has abnormal cell activity in the brain which causes seizures, a period of unusual behavior, sensations, and loss of awareness.

Caused by the abnormal activity of the brain, the seizures vary because the brain controls many parts of the body therefore those parts can be affected. The symptoms vary but include uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs and loss of consciousness or awareness. The seizures depend on the part of the brain that is being affected, therefore there are different types of seizures. Two types of seizures are partial and generalized. Partial seizures happen when only one area of the brain is affected, while generalized seizures happen when both sides of the brain are affected.

To be diagnosed with epilepsy, you must have at least two unprovoked seizures in a period of over 24 hours. Epilepsy is an incurable condition that can only be treated. To control the seizures medications or sometimes surgery can be used, while others require lifelong treatments. Visit SecondOpinions.com to help you find the right treatment for epilepsy.