In normal brain functioning, millions of tiny electrical charges pass constantly between the nerve cells of the brain and other parts of the body. When a seizure occurs, it is a signal that something has gone wrong with the electrical system of the brain. A seizure can be defined as a brief, temporary disturbance within the electrical system of the brain. There are two major categories of seizures, partial seizures, and generalized seizures.
Partial seizures occur in just one part of the brain.
About 60 percent of people with epilepsy have partial seizures. There are also different types of partial seizures. In a simple partial seizure, the person remains conscious but may experience unusual feelings or sensations. In a complex partial seizure, the person may have a change or loss of consciousness. The change in consciousness may be an altered or dreamlike experience.