Absence seizures
A type of seizure that typically is distinguishable by short periods ( 5-15 seconds) of staring, blinking, rolling of the eyes, or arm movements. These brief lapses of consciousness are followed by a return to full awareness.

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
A category of drugs that can help control the frequency and severity of seizures; they also are known as anticonvulsants.

Aura
An unusual physical sensation that occurs in some people before a seizure occurs, although they are more correctly thought of as the very first symptom of the seizure. Auras, which vary depending on the individual, can be a strange taste or odor, a tense feeling, or even a sound.

Breakthrough seizures
Seizures that periodically occur in a person whose epilepsy is otherwise well controlled.

Complex partial seizures
A type of seizure that impairs awareness and originates most often from the temporal lobes of the brain. Complex partial seizures are characterized by involuntary, repetitive behaviors such as head turning and random movement that usually are not remembered by the person after the seizure is over.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A non-invasive test for epilepsy during which several electrodes are placed on a patient's scalp to record electrical impulses from the brain (brain waves).

Generalized seizures
Seizures that originate throughout the brain.

Ketogenic diet
A special high-fat, low carbohydrate diet that may help to reduce the number of seizures in some patients, especially in children.

MRI
A diagnostic test which shows the structure of the brain where language, motor, and sensory areas are located.

Partial seizures
Seizures that begin in one part of the brain.

Tonic-clonic seizures
A type of seizure that is characterized by stiffening or jerking of the body. A person loses consciousness during a tonic-clonic seizure and may also have shallow breathing and a loss of bowel/bladder control.

Triggers
Factors that seem to bring on or "trigger" a seizure.

Vagal Nerve Stimulator
A small, battery-operated device that sends low levels of electrical current to the left vagal nerve; the signals are relayed to the brain and can, in many persons, produce improved seizure control.