Epilepsy is a brain condition in which patients have seizures that may be mild or severe. People with epilepsy can feel isolated. In recent years, a better understanding of epilepsy has led to better treatments. Today, people with epilepsy can feel part of society and enjoy everyday life.
Disease: Epilepsy
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ
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What is it?
Epilepsy is a chronic disorder where patients keep having seizures. The seizures are caused by nerve cells in the brain firing excessively and in a disorganised way. Seizures can vary from mild 'absences'; through to full-scale convulsions. -
Who gets it?
An estimated 7 million people in Europe will have an epileptic seizure at some time during their lives. Epilepsy tends to be more common in the first 5 years of life, and again in people over 65 years old. -
What can be done about it?
A number of medicines for epilepsy have been available for many years. These therapies control seizures but almost all cause drowsiness and other side effects such as nausea and unsteadiness.
The last decade has seen the introduction of new medicines. These have been based on a better understanding of epilepsy, such as the role of the neurotransmitter (called GABA) which damps down spontaneous nerve firing. Though good seizure control can be achieved in many patients, they still experience side effects. -
What does the future hold?
A new substance that affects the neurotransmitter GABA is in development, as are other agents that affect nerve-cell firing. Research is continuing into an agent that inhibits other neurotransmitters which stimulate spontaneous nerve discharge. Another line of research is investigating the promising properties of a compound extracted from the venom of a marine snail.