Understanding epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures. There are different types, and symptoms vary. A person may briefly stare without responding, lose awareness, or have repeated jerking movements of the arms or legs.
One seizure does not always mean epilepsy. A specialist may diagnose epilepsy after two unprovoked or reflex seizures more than 24 hours apart, after one seizure with a high risk of recurrence, or when an epilepsy syndrome is diagnosed. Medical assessment is needed; these criteria should not be used for self-diagnosis.
Seizure symptoms
- Temporary confusion or a staring spell.
- Stiff muscles or uncontrollable jerking of the arms and legs.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Fear, anxiety or a feeling of déjà vu.
- Changes in behaviour; some people may also have symptoms of psychosis.
When to seek medical help
Seek immediate medical help if:
- A seizure lasts more than five minutes.
- Breathing or consciousness does not return after the seizure stops.
- Another seizure follows immediately.
- A seizure occurs with a high fever, during pregnancy or in someone with diabetes.
- The person is injured during the seizure.
- Seizures continue despite taking anti-seizure medicine.
If you have a seizure for the first time, seek medical advice.





