Seizure types

Back to Epileptic Seizures

There are many different types of seizures. On this page we tell you about the most common seizure types, such as generalised and focal seizure types. 

This information is for people affected by or concerned about seizures. Use this page as a general guide and speak to a health professional for more information and support 

In this section

Seizure onset
Seizure classification

Seizure onset 

An epileptic seizure happens when there is a sudden electrical discharge in the brain. It can happen in different parts of the brain.  

The seizure type and the symptoms you have depends on what part of the brain the sudden electrical discharge happens.  

What are the seizure types?

Listen to epilepsy consultant nurse Kirsten describe how focal and generalised seizures are defined.

Find out about different types of seizures

What is an epileptic seizure?

Discover what an epileptic seizure is, how to identify a seizure in babies and infants, and about non-epileptic seizures and episodes.

Generalised onset seizures

Learn about generalised onset seizures, their types, causes, and management. Find resources and support for children and young people with epilepsy.

Focal onset seizures

Learn about epileptic seizures in babies and infants, including types and signs, from birth to one year old.

Seizure triggers

Learn about common seizure triggers in children and young people, including poor sleep, missed medication, and flickering lights.

Monitoring seizures

Young Epilepsy’s information about nocturnal seizure monitors and other equipment, apps and services for parents of children with epilepsy.

More information about epilepsy

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.

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