What is epilepsy?

Abstract

People with epilepsy lose control of their body, usually with complete or partial loss of consciousness, at various unexpected times. In other words, they may make movements without consciously wishing to do so and often without being aware of what is happening. This loss of conscious control may be referred to as an 'absence', 'blackout', convulsion', 'turn', 'seizure' or 'fit'. Lack of public understanding of epilepsy causes fear, and fear in turn induces prejudice. There can be no doubt that there is a general prejudice towards those with epilepsy, not only in Malta but throughout the world.