Epilepsy, or “sawan” in Indonesian, is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause various symptoms. Understanding the different types of epilepsy is crucial for effective management and treatment. This article explores the various types of epilepsy, providing a comprehensive overview to help with better diagnosis and care.

Generalized Seizures

Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain from the onset. They are further classified into several types, including tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic, and atonic seizures. Tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, involve a combination of muscle stiffening and jerking movements. Absence seizures, often seen in children, cause brief lapses in consciousness. Myoclonic seizures cause sudden, short muscle jerks, while atonic seizures result in sudden loss of muscle tone.

Focal Seizures

Focal seizures, also known as partial seizures, originate in a specific area of the brain. They are divided into focal onset aware seizures and focal onset impaired awareness seizures. Focal onset aware seizures allow the person to remain conscious but may experience unusual sensations or movements. Focal onset impaired awareness seizures affect consciousness and can cause confusion or unusual behaviors.

Epileptic Syndromes

Epileptic syndromes are specific groups of epilepsy types characterized by particular patterns of seizures and other symptoms. Examples include Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which presents with multiple types of seizures and developmental issues, and Dravet syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy.

In summary, epilepsy encompasses a range of seizure types and syndromes, each with distinct features and treatment needs. Understanding these differences is vital for appropriate diagnosis and management, ensuring individuals receive the best possible care for their condition.