Types of epileptic seizures

• Tonic seizures in which there is general stiffening of muscles without jerking of the limbs 

• Atonic seizures (also known as drop attacks) in which there is a sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the person to fall 

• Myoclonic seizures involving abrupt jerking of the limbs

• Simple partial seizures, (also referred to as a 'warning' or 'aura') in which consciousness is not impaired.  The seizure is confined to either rhythmical twitching of one limb, or to unusual tastes or sensations such as pins and needles  

• Complex partial seizures involving a change in awareness and confused behaviour

What to do in the event of a seizure

Most convulsive seizures only last a few minutes and will stop of their own accord. It is important not to restrain the convulsive movements and NEVER put anything into the person's mouth.  Allow the seizure to take its own course. Move away any objects which might cause injury and if possible, put something soft under the person's head. After the seizure has finished, roll the person onto their side in the recovery position, and check that their breathing is returning to normal.  Stay with them until they have recovered fully.

Medical help should be called if:

• The person is injured or has trouble breathing after a seizure

• One seizure immediately follows another or the seizure lasts more than five minutes, or for longer than is usual for that person

If a person falls during a non-convulsive seizure check for injury and stay with them until recovered.  If prolonged confusion occurs gently guide the person away from dangers like wandering into the road.

How is epilepsy treated?

Up to 80% of people with epilepsy are able to gain full control of their seizures with anti-epileptic medication.  There are many different anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), effective for different types of seizures.  Some people may gain total control of their seizures using just one AED; other people may need to take a combination of AEDs.

Surgery may be considered if the drug treatment is proving ineffective, providing one specific, accessible part of the brain can be identified as the area from which the seizures arise.

How will epilepsy affect my life?

Many people with epilepsy lead full lives and continue with daily activities without difficulty.  There may be restrictions in some areas of life, depending on the frequency and severity of seizures.  Most areas of work are open to people with epilepsy, although there may be restrictions in some professions such as the police service, armed forces and jobs involving driving.  Only a few per cent of people with epilepsy are affected by flashing lights, and even for these people, using computers may not necessarily be a problem.

After any type of seizure, a person is required to surrender their driving licence.  Once a person has been free of seizures for a year, they may reapply for their licence.  If seizures only occur during sleep, the person may reapply for their licence if seizures have only occurred during sleep for the last three years. 

We are indebited to the National Society for Epilepsy for their help in compiling this section.