Seizures are caused by sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These changes can cause a person to have "blackouts" or periods of confused memory, convulsions, or fainting spells. People can experience a seizure and not have epilepsy; they can be caused by a tumor, stroke, a brain infection, or certain other medical conditions. There are two general types of seizures: generalized (all brain cells are involved) and partial (brain cells not working properly are limited to one part of the brain).

(Click Seizures to learn more about the possible symptoms of seizures, to find out why they occur, and for information on how they are diagnosed. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)

Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Seizures

Types of Seizures

Seizure Disorder

Causes of Seizures

Seizures and Epilepsy

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First Aid for Seizures

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