, occurring often at night. Epilepsy is a common condition in which the brain is affected causing seizures. A seizure is described as a burst of electric activity in the brain which temporarily affects the brain causing a number of different symptoms. The condition can start at any age but is commonly seen early in a person's childhood or in people aged over 60. What causes epilepsy? Epilepsy is when there is a burst of electric activity in the brain causing a seizure ( Getty Images/iStockphoto) 'There are a number of identifiable factors that increase a person's risk of developing epilepsy, including brain injury or trauma which may cause scarring on the brain; infection, such as meningitis or encephalitis; a stroke or oxygen deprivation,' explains Epilepsy Research UK. The health charity added: 'In addition, there are autoimmune disorders which affect multiple organ systems and frequently involve inflammation of the central nervous system, in which seizures are a core symptom. 'Brain tumours; chemical and/or hormonal imbalances and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's may also cause epileptic seizures.' Symptoms of epilepsy Signs of the condition may include: Temporary confusion Staring Stiff muscles Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs Loss of consciousness or awareness Psychological symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu Shorter lifespan among those suffering with epilepsy In a new study, those living with epilepsy were said to live 10 to 12 years less than tho){kind=link}
In the UK, around 1,000 people die from causes related to epilepsy, with many of the deaths thoughts to be avoidable. Here we take a closer look at the condition and some of the early warning signs to be aware of
On average, 21 people in the UK die from epilepsy every week. This figure accounts for injuries sustained due to an epileptic fit.
The majority of these deaths are caused by Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), occurring often at night.
Epilepsy is a common condition in which the brain is affected causing seizures. A seizure is described as a burst of electric activity in the brain which temporarily affects the brain causing a number of different symptoms.
The condition can start at any age but is commonly seen early in a person’s childhood or in people aged over 60.