If you have been recently diagnosed with epilepsy or a seizure disorder, chances are you are pretty frightened of the unknown. Hopefully, this quick list of often-asked questions can provide some much needed answers. Additional information can be provided through the links below.

As always, we would welcome any questions you might have.
In Atlanta call 404-527-7155, or statewide call toll-free (800) 527-7105.

This page is intended to provide the basic information about epilepsy and seizure disorders to the general public. It is not intended to, nor does it, constitute medical advice, and readers are warned against changing medical schedules without first consulting a physician.

15 Apr

How can people guard against having seizures?

A person with epilepsy can help control his or her seizures by taking the prescribed medication regularly, maintaining regular sleep cycles, avoiding unusual stress, and working closely with his or her physician. Regular medical evaluation and follow-up visits are also important. However, seizures may occur even when someone is... Read more
15 Apr

How is epilepsy diagnosed?

The doctor’s main tool in diagnosing epilepsy is a careful medical history with as much information as possible about what the seizures looked like and what happened just before they began. A second major tool is an electroencephalograph (EEG) . This is a machine that records brain waves picked... Read more
15 Apr

How is epilepsy treated?

Epilepsy may be treated with drugs, surgery, or a special diet. Of these treatments, drug therapy is by far the most common, and is usually the first to be tried. A number of medications are currently used in the treatment of epilepsy. These medications control different types of seizures.... Read more
15 Apr

What causes epilepsy?

In about seven out of ten people with epilepsy, no cause can be found. Among the rest, the cause may be any one of a number of things that can make a difference in the way the brain works. For example, head injuries or lack of oxygen during birth... Read more
15 Apr

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that from time to time produces brief disturbances in the normal electrical functions of the brain. Normal brain function is made possible by millions of tiny electrical charges passing between nerve cells in the brain and to all parts of the body. When someone... Read more
15 Apr

What is the difference between seizures and epilepsy?

Seizures are a symptom of epilepsy. Epilepsy is the underlying tendency of the brain to produce sudden bursts of electrical energy that disrupt other brain functions. Having a single seizure does not necessarily mean a person has epilepsy. High fever, severe head injury, lack of oxygen–a number of factors... Read more
15 Apr

What is the Ketogenic diet?

The ketogenic diet, which is very high in fats and low in carbohydrates, was first developed almost 80 years ago. It makes the body burn fat for energy instead of glucose.
15 Apr

What should I consider if there has been only a single seizure?

When a child or adult has never had a seizure before, the first seizure should be followed by a careful medical evaluation to help the doctor decide whether to recommend treatment with seizure preventing drugs, or to wait and see whether it occurs again. The most important factor in... Read more
15 Apr

What should I do if I suspect a seizure disorder?

If you think you or a loved one might be having seizures, it is important to discuss with your physician what has been happening. Keep a record of how often the unusual episode occurs, the time of day it happens and what form it takes. Giving the doctor this... Read more
15 Apr

Which doctors treat epilepsy?

Neurologists, pediatric neurologists, pediatricians, neurosurgeons, internists and family physicians all provide treatment for epilepsy. Specialized care for people whose seizures are difficult to control is available in large medical centers, neurological clinics at university and other hospitals, and from neurological specialists in private practice.