Epilepsy is a nervous system disorder characterized by disruptions in the normal flow of neural impulses. The disruptions can cause various neurological symptoms, including intense muscular convulsions, which are called seizures. However, not all seizures are due to epilepsy. Other factors may bring about seizures that have nothing to do with epilepsy, notes the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Chronic vs. Temporary
Both epilepsy and seizures may be characterized by muscular convulsions, but they may differ in the duration of the condition. While idiopathic epilepsy has a probability of fading over time, epilepsy is generally a lifelong condition, notes the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Nonepileptic seizures are temporary and are usually curable if the cause behind them is properly treated.
Different Etiology
Epilepsy and seizures differ in etiology, or cause, notes the Centers for Disease Control. By and large, epilepsy is due to abnormal neural connections as well as imbalances in neurotransmitters. Certain kinds of medications, high body temperature and unusual amounts of sodium and blood sugar in the body are among the causes of seizures.
Different Treatment
Epilepsy may be treated using antiepileptic medication, surgery or neural-electrical stimulation via implant, note the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Seizures may be treated with anticonvulsant medication and by curing the non-epileptic condition causing the seizures. Those who experience non-epileptic seizures are also encouraged to avoid activities or events that place unnecessary strain on the body and may trigger a convulsive episode.
Different Effects
Epilepsy does not necessarily preclude leading a normal life, notes MedlinePlus, but epileptics should generally avoid situations that place them or the people around them at risk. Those suffering from seizures can live relatively normal lives once the cause for the seizures has been cured.
Different Symptoms
The symptoms of both epilepsy and seizures may vary in intensity. Some kinds of seizures may be characterized by loss of consciousness, while others may be full-blown convulsion events. Epileptic seizures, on the other hand, are generally similar to each other. The precise area of the brain affected during an epileptic seizure can vary, depending on the type of epilepsy, notes the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
