What is a seizure?

Your brain comprises billions of neurons – nerve cells that process and transmit information by interacting with each other. These interactions can be observed and assessed through an electroencephalogram (EEG).

Most neuron interactions occur with few disruptions. Occasionally, small neuron misfires may occur with little consequences. Yet sometimes multiple cells misfire at the same time – depending on the severity and location in the brain. This is a seizure: a sudden, disorganizes electrical discharge in the brain causing muscle twitches and spasms, changes in sensation, mood, behavior or thought, or altered consciousness.

Epilepsy vs Seizures

A seizure is a single occurrence, whereas epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by two or more unprovoked seizures.  

Types of Seizures and Epilepsy

Learn more about diagnosis of epilepsy and various types of seizures, including

• Focal seizures and focal epilepsy
• Generalized seizures
• Myoclonic seizures
• Tonic and clonic seizures
• Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
• Epilepsy syndromes in children, including benign Rolandic epilepsy

Request an appointment

For more information about epilepsy, request an appointment with the Epilepsy Center.