Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disease in the U.S., affecting approximately 2 million people across the country. The condition is characterized by recurrent and unprovoked seizures. One major problem is that delayed recognition of the seizures and lack of proper treatment increases the risk for additional seizures which can result in disability, lower quality of life, and in some cases death.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the nervous system and it is commonly known as seizure disorder. The condition is often diagnosed after a patient has two seizures that are not connected to any medical condition.
November is a great time to increase public knowledge regarding epilepsy. Most people know very little about the disease and have no idea that it can occur at any age. Epilepsy is more likely to begin in children younger than 2 years of age and older adults more than 65 years old. Like many individuals who live with chronic disorders, people with epilepsy usually face challenges managing treatment, symptoms, lifestyle limits, disability, stress and stigma.