Epilet

Epilet is a term used in some languages to refer to epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. In English, epilepsy is the common term, and epilet may appear as a regional or historical variant. The condition encompasses a range of seizure types and severities, and its impact varies widely among individuals.

Seizures are broadly categorized as focal (localizable to one brain area) and generalized (involving both cerebral hemispheres). Focal seizures can present with sensory, motor, or cognitive symptoms, sometimes with impaired awareness. Generalized seizures include tonic-clonic events, absence seizures, and atonic seizures. Some people have seizures that evolve from focal to generalized.

Causes of epilepsy are diverse. Many cases are idiopathic with a genetic basis. Acquired causes include brain injury from trauma, stroke, infection, brain malformations, and developmental disorders. Risk factors include a family history of epilepsy, metabolic disorders, and a history of perinatal complications.

Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, neurological examination, and confirming abnormal brain activity with an electroencephalogram (EEG). Brain imaging, such as MRI or CT, helps identify structural causes. In some cases, video-EEG monitoring is used to classify seizures for treatment planning.

Treatment aims to reduce or eliminate seizures and improve quality of life. The mainstay is antiseizure medications (AEDs). For drug-resistant focal epilepsy, options include surgical removal of a seizure focus, laser ablation, neurostimulation (vagus nerve stimulation or responsive neurostimulation), and dietary therapies such as the ketogenic diet in select cases.

With appropriate management, many people with epilepsy achieve good seizure control. Some experience persistent seizures despite treatment. Safety considerations include driving regulations, sleep and medication adherence, and avoiding situations that may provoke seizures during activities.