Epilepsy | Disease of the Week | CDC

Epilepsy | Disease of the Week | CDC

DOTW: Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a common disorder of the brain that causes recurring seizures. It is sometimes called a seizure disorder. A seizure is a short change in normal brain activity. Seizures are the main sign of epilepsy. A person is diagnosed with epilepsy when they have had two or more seizures. There are many types of seizures. Some seizures can look like staring spells. Other seizures cause a person to fall, shake, and lose awareness of what’s going on around them. A seizure can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. Epilepsy is more common in children and older adults but can affect people of all ages.

Key Facts

• Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring seizures.
• Epilepsy affects about 2.9 million Americans.
• About 1 in 10 people will have a seizure at some point in their life.
• There are many different kinds of epilepsy and types of seizures.
• People with epilepsy can have an active and full life.
• There are over 200 epilepsy centers in the United States. Health care providers at these centers specialize in managing epilepsy and provide expert care to both children and adults.

• November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Epilepsy affects about 2.9 million people in the United States. That includes both adults and children.
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  People with epilepsy and their caregivers often face challenges. Sometimes it can be hard to manage treatment, side effects, lifestyle limitations, and stress.
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  CDC's Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network is composed of individuals interested in improving the care of people with epilepsy. MEW Network members, including representatives from U.S. universities, community-based organizations, and CDC are working together to develop and test self-management programs and tools that help people with epilepsy better manage their disorder and improve their quality of life.
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  Always wear a seat belt every time you drive or ride in a motor vehicle. Always wear a helmet and make sure your children wear helmets when: riding a bike, motorcycle, or all-terrain vehicle; or playing a contact sport such as football or ice hockey. Make living areas safer by removing tripping hazards, using non-slip mats and improving lighting throughout the home.
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  Receiving proper prenatal care to avoid problems during pregnancy and childbirth may lessen complications that could lead to epilepsy.

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  National Epilepsy Awareness Month
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  Epilepsy Affects Millions of Americans
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  Live Well with Epilepsy
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  Prevent Traumatic Brain Injuries
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  Get Proper Prenatal Care

Prevention Tips

Sometimes we can prevent epilepsy. These are some of the most common ways to reduce your risk of developing epilepsy:

• Have a healthy pregnancy. Some problems during pregnancy and childbirth may lead to epilepsy in the child. Follow a prenatal care plan with your doctor to keep you and your baby healthy.
• Take steps to prevent head injuries, such as using a seatbelt in the car or wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle
• Lower your risk of stroke and heart disease by eating well, exercising, and not smoking.
• Be up-to-date on your vaccinations. Read the CDC Recommendations for Vaccines and Immunizations.
• Wash your hands and prepare food safely to prevent infections such as cysticercosis.