It may also be called a seizure disorder. Abnormal patterns in the electrical activity are associated with seizures. A seizure disorder includes any condition in which there are repeated episodes of seizures of any type. Seizure disorders affect about 0.5 percent of the population and can affect people of any age. It is characterized by seizures of any type that occur on a chronic, recurrent basis and have no known cause.
Epilepsy is a chronic and, usually, lifelong condition.
In some cases, need for medications may be reduced or eliminated over time. A physical examination and a detailed neuromuscular examination are necessary to diagnose epilepsy. It may indicate the location of the lesion causing the seizure. If a cause for the epilepsy has been identified, treatment may stop the occurrence of seizures, which could include medical treatment, surgical repair of tumors or brain lesions, or other treatments. Oral anticonvulsants prevent or minimize the number of seizures.