Tests may be done to rule out short term causes of seizures, such as uncontrolled diabetes or infections. If there is any family history of epilepsy, that is also considered. Although there are over 30 different types of epilepsy related seizures, there are two broad groups generalized or partial depending on the part of the brain affected. Generalized seizures cause loss or alteration of consciousness, involve the entire brain, and affect the whole body. Generalized seizures include grand mal seizures, where the person falls down unconscious as the body stiffens or jerks, and petit mal or absence seizures, where there is momentary alteration of consciousness without abnormal movements.
Partial seizures occur when abnormal electrical activity only involves one area of the brain.
Most epileptic seizures last only a minute or two and are not life threatening. Many times the side effects determine the drugs. In July 1997 FDA approved the first medical device for hard to control partial seizures. The stimulation has the effect of preventing seizures in some people. People generally must continue to take medications as well.