Seizure is a general term which means too many brain cells become excited simultaneously. According to Dr. Robert S. Fisher, there are so many types of seizures that neurologists are still trying to classify them. There are two main types, generalized seizures and partial seizures. The difference between them is in how they begin. In a generalized seizure there is a widespread electrical discharge which involves both sides of the brain. Partial seizures begin with the seizure taking place in one limited area of the brain.

There is a new epilepsy center at the Trinity Mother Frances Hospital which is specially focused on those with epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic seizure disorder that affects over 50 million people worldwide. A person can have a seizure without being epileptic, but if a person has more than one seizure they are considered epileptic. There are different reasons that a seizure can happen in a non-epileptic person, such as: brain injury, stroke, low blood sugar, brain tumor, and even an injury at the time of birth, such as not enough oxygen.

Teaching children about epilepsy is very important, especially if a parent or close relative suffers from the disorder. It is a good idea to teach the child or children what epilepsy is, on a level that they can understand. If a child were to experience a parent having a seizure without knowing what was happening, it could be downright terrifying for that child to see mom or dad convulsing and not know what was going on.

VNS Therapy for epilepsy can be a beneficial alternative to medication. VNS is an acronym for Vagus Nerve Stimulation. Epilepsy has no known cause and can start in a person at any age. Up to 35% of people experience what is known as uncontrolled epilepsy, in which no medications are effective. Some people who do respond to medication have side effects such as extreme tiredness, which can be detrimental to work, school, and life in general.

At times it may seem as if epilepsy and depression go hand in hand. Epilepsy may affect the ability of a person to work, drive, or participate in other activities. Statistics have shown that anywhere from 11-60% of people who have epilepsy can suffer from depression, while 10-32% can suffer from anxiety. Other people with epilepsy can also experience panic attacks. While these symptoms can be related to lifestyle, many can be attributed to the area of the brain from where the seizures have started.

Many people believe that a raw food diet is essential to health, well-being, and vitality. The belief behind the raw food diet is that when food is cooked, essential vitamins and minerals are depleted from the food, which are so important for the body and all of its functions. Years ago it was necessary to cook meat for the elimination of diseases. This practice of cooking food became popular with all types of food, even though there was no chance of getting a disease or illness from vegetables or other types of fresh foods.