The word "epilepsy" derives from the Greek and Late Latin word "epilepsia" and "to be seized". All of the words, meaning "seizure", originally come from the Greek word epilambanien - "to take hold of ". (epi - upon + lambanien - to take). Epilepsy (a disease of the nervous system, characterized by violent paraxysms, in which the patient falls to the ground in a state of of unconsciousness, with general spasm of the muscles, and foaming at the mouth.) The English name is falling sickness.
The present day Epilepsy was spelled as Epilepsie in the 1500-1700's. When referred to as Epilepsie, it was of the disease itself. Eventually the word Epilepsie was used more to refer to as "the seizing" of someone's mental state in the late 1800's (i.e. 1843 LEVER J. Hinton xxxiv. (1878) 232 His features worked like one in a fit of epilepsy. ) and the spelling changed to Epilepsy. But not until the 1900's and thru present day is the context again referred to as "the disease".
The disease, Epilepsy has several seizures that occur without warning and without any reason. Which may briefly upset some ones muscle control, movement, speech, vision, or awareness. Usually that person will collapse to the ground uncontrollably shaking.
Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological condition. Anyone can develop Epilepsy; it occurs in all ages, races, and social classes. Seizures often start when the person is an infant or late teenager, and the possibility of developing Epilepsy is greater again after the age of 65.
Epilepsy can be treated but the success depends on many factors, such as the type of Epilepsy, the accuracy of the diagnosis, whether the right type of treatment is being applied, and whether the person has any other disabilities. With the correct drugs, seizures can be completely controlled in 80% of people suffering. Some people continue to have seizures after treatment has been in effect and these people usually benefit from brain surgery.
