Epilepsy

Running Head: EPILEPSY, THE CAUSE AND AFFECTS

Epilepsy, the Cause and Affects

University of Phoenix

Epilepsy, the Cause and Affects

Epilepsy is derived from the Greek language, meaning “attack.” This disease was one of the first disorders of the brain described in the early 400 B.C. Although this is an increasingly common disease, found in 8 out of every 1000 Americans, very few truly understand the symptoms of the ailment (Epilepsy.com, 2009).

Epilepsy is frequently mistaken as a single disorder. More accurately, it is a series of abnormal electric episodes within the brain. One would find several absurd myths regarding epilepsy. It has been related to demons, insanity and witchcrafts. However, this paper will furnish its readers with the pertinent details surrounding epilepsy. It will answer the most frequently asked questions; providing information about the disease; what causes it, does diet effect it, what organs it affected, and the cures, if any.

EPILEPSY AND THE CAUSE

Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which clusters of nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain sometimes signal abnormally. Neurons normally generate electrochemical impulses that act on other neurons, glands, and muscles producing human thoughts, feelings, and actions. In epilepsy, the normal pattern of neuronal activity becomes disturbed. Once these activities are disturbed they cause strange sensations, emotions, and behavior, or sometimes convulsions, muscle spasms, and loss of consciousness. During a seizure, neurons may fire as many as 500 times a second, much faster than normal. In some people, this happens only occasionally; for others, it may happen up to hundreds of times a day (MedicineNet, 2009).

Epilepsy is not contagious and is not caused by mental illness or mental retardation. Some people with mental retardation may experience seizures, but seizures do not necessarily mean the person has or will develop mental impairment. Many people with...