Conditions
Seizures & Epilepsy
A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has recurrent, unprovoked seizures.
Overview
A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has recurrent, unprovoked seizures.
Symptoms
- Staring spells
- Uncontrolled jerking movements
- Brief loss of awareness
- Confusion after an episode
Diagnosis
EEG, video EEG and brain imaging help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
When to see a doctor
Call 911 for a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, repeated seizures, injury, or a first-ever seizure. Schedule follow-up after any new episode.
This information is educational and does not replace a medical evaluation.