And you-O you, who the wildest yearn
For the old-time step and the glad return
Think of him faring on, as dear
In the love of there as the love of here;
Think of him still as the same, I say;
He is not dead-he is just away!

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy refers to a pattern of multiple seizures, which occurs when nerve cells in the brain send electrical impulses at higher than normal rates. Firing off these neurons at this speed causes an "electrical storm" in the brain. A single cause of epilepsy cannot be found by scientists; however, in some cases seizures can be caused by head injuries, brain tumors, lead poisoning, and genetic illnesses.

The brain is capable of sending complex electrical and chemical messages throughout the body. A seizure happens when this message delivery becomes unbalanced. For instance, the GABA neurotransmitter (responsible for 25-45% of all brain synapses) tries to make sure this system is in working order by triggering signals in the form of charged particles. However, receiving neurons can be filled with messages that say "Pass this on" when there is not enough GABA, resulting in seizures (see illustration below.)

Illustration © 1996, courtesty of Lydia Kibiuk.

Who does it affect?

· Epilepsy is one of the most common disorders of the nervous system.
· It affects people of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds.
· More than 2.7 million Americans of all ages are living with epilepsy.
· Every year, 181,000 Americans will develop seizures and epilepsy for the first time.
· It can develop at any time of life, especially in early childhood and old age.

Source: Epilepsy Foundation

Where can I get more information?

Find more information and research on epilepsy and seizures by visiting the Epilepsy Foundation's Answer Place.