Basic Information
Epilepsy, pronounced [ ep - uh -lep-see ], is a condition characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a manifestation of abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. Seizures can involve a temporary loss of consciousness or temporary changes in behavior. The exact changes of behavior depend on the area of the brain that is being affected by the electrical discharge.
Generally, people are diagnosed as having epilepsy if they have had two seizures that are not provoked seizures. Examples of what can provoke seizures are high fevers or the flashing strobe lights at a school dance.