Can epilepsy be outgrown?

Some children with epilepsy do outgrow their seizures, particularly those with benign childhood epilepsy syndromes. Many people require lifelong management, and decisions about stopping medication should be made with a neurologist.

Can people with epilepsy drive?

Driving laws vary by state but generally require a seizure-free period of 3 to 12 months. Your neurologist can help determine when it is safe to drive based on your seizure control.

What should I do if someone has a seizure?

Stay calm, clear hazards, place the person on their side, and cushion their head. Never put anything in their mouth. Call 911 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or the person does not regain consciousness.

NeurologicalICD-10: G40Affects about 3.4 million people in the United States

Epilepsy

Also known as: Seizure Disorder

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It affects people of all ages and can range from brief lapses in attention to severe convulsions. With proper treatment, about 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free.

Symptoms

Temporary confusion or staring spells

Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs

Loss of consciousness or awareness

Psychic symptoms such as fear, anxiety, or déjà vu

Stiffening of the body

Falling suddenly without apparent cause

Lip smacking or other repetitive movements

Temporary inability to speak after a seizure

Causes

Genetic factors and inherited epilepsy syndromes
Brain injury from trauma, stroke, or infection
Brain tumors or structural abnormalities
Prenatal brain damage or developmental disorders
Infectious diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis

Risk Factors

Family history of epilepsy
History of head trauma or brain injury
Stroke or other vascular diseases
Neurodegenerative conditions
Childhood febrile seizures
Central nervous system infections

Diagnosis

Electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect abnormal brain wave patterns
MRI or CT scan of the brain to identify structural causes
Blood tests to rule out metabolic or infectious causes
Neurological examination assessing motor and cognitive function
Video EEG monitoring to capture seizure activity

Treatment

Anti-seizure medications (levetiracetam, lamotrigine, valproic acid)
Ketogenic diet, especially effective in children
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for drug-resistant epilepsy
Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) device
Epilepsy surgery to remove the seizure focus
Lifestyle modifications including adequate sleep and stress management

Prevention

Wear seatbelts and helmets to prevent head injuries
Manage cardiovascular risk factors to prevent stroke-related epilepsy
Ensure proper prenatal care
Get vaccinated against infections that can cause brain inflammation

When to See a Doctor

A seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
Breathing or consciousness does not return after a seizure
A second seizure follows immediately after the first
You experience your first seizure at any age

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Essential Tremor

Neurological

Stroke

Cardiovascular

Meningitis

Infectious

Have questions about Epilepsy?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Epilepsy

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.