What defines epilepsy?

Epilepsy is defined as a chronic seizure disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. This definition encompasses a variety of seizure types that can vary in frequency and severity, making it a complex neurological condition. The key aspect of epilepsy is the chronic nature of the seizures—meaning that they occur repeatedly over time without an identifiable provoking factor.

While a sudden loss of consciousness may be a feature of certain types of seizures, it is not a defining characteristic of epilepsy as a whole. Similarly, a temporary loss of motor skills or describing it as a reversible central nervous system condition does not capture the chronic aspect of the disorder. Epilepsy can have long-term impacts on an individual's life and is typically managed with ongoing treatment, emphasizing the need to recognize it as a chronic condition rather than something that is temporary or reversible.