Epilepsy need not be an impairment to a normal life. Though it is difficult to identify the cause, electrically charged chemicals within the brain are thought to play a key role in the condition. Studies have indicated that it may be acquired through injury to the brain or by acute infection. Probably about 1 person in every 100 has some form Epilepsy. The majority of people with Epilepsy are affected in childhood, or before the age of 20.
Epilepsy can affect anyone at any time.
The great majority of people with Epilepsy have the risk of seizures throughout their lives. For the remainder, the number of seizures can usually be considerably reduced. Epilepsy is not contagious, nor is it a psychiatric disease. In this type of seizure the person suddenly falls rigid and unconscious to the ground, and may then begin to shake or convulse, with vigorous and regular muscle contractions. Saliva may bubble from the mouth.