Epilepsy: Types, Diagnosis & Modern Treatment Options

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by our specialists · East Delhi

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures — abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. It affects 1% of the population (~10 million Indians). Most cases are controllable with medication.

Types of Seizures

Generalised Seizures (affecting whole brain)

• Tonic-clonic (grand mal): convulsions, loss of consciousness
• Absence: brief staring spells (common in children)
• Myoclonic: sudden muscle jerks (often on waking)

Focal Seizures (affecting one brain region)

• Focal aware (simple partial): conscious, unusual sensations or movements
• Focal impaired awareness (complex partial): confusion, automatisms (lip smacking, hand rubbing)

Diagnosis

• EEG (electroencephalogram): records brain electrical activity, detects epileptiform discharges
• MRI brain: identifies structural causes (tumour, scar, malformation)
• Blood tests: exclude metabolic causes (low glucose, sodium)

Treatment

Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs)

70% of patients achieve seizure control with medication. First-line: levetiracetam, sodium valproate, carbamazepine (depending on seizure type).

Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

30% of patients fail two or more medications. Options: epilepsy surgery (resection of seizure focus), vagal nerve stimulation, responsive neurostimulation, ketogenic diet.