About epilepsy

We're here with the answers to your questions about epilepsy

Epilepsy is a condition that affects the brain and nervous system, causing repeated seizures. Around 1 in 107 people in the UK have epilepsy. Trying to get to grips with all there is to know about epilepsy can feel overwhelming. 

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed, support someone with epilepsy, or simply want to learn more, we have reliable information about epilepsy for you.  

In this section, you can find out about how epilepsy is diagnosed, what the different seizure types are, treatments for epilepsy and much more. 

In this section

Understanding epilepsy

Discover key facts about epilepsy, including what it is, who it affects, misdiagnosis rates, treatment gaps, and epilepsy-related deaths in the UK.

Causes of epilepsy

Learn about the causes of epilepsy, including genetic, metabolic, unknown origins, and epilepsy in infants, from Young Epilepsy.

Epilepsy syndromes

Learn about common childhood and rare infancy epilepsy syndromes in this informative guide from Young Epilepsy.

Epileptic seizures

Understand epileptic seizures, their types, causes, and management. Find resources and support for living with epilepsy.

Diagnosing epilepsy

Find out how epilepsy is diagnosed, what to expect at your first appointment, and how to get the right support for children and young people.

Treatments for epilepsy

Explore various epilepsy treatments, including medication, surgery, and dietary options. Find resources and support for managing epilepsy effectively.

Common co-occurring conditions

Explore common co-occurring conditions like autism, ADHD and dyspraxia in children with epilepsy, and how to recognise and support them early.

Useful templates & tools

Access essential questionnaires and forms for parents and carers, and professionals, who care for children and young people with epilepsy.