What is epilepsy?

A group of disorders marked by problems in the normal functioning of the brain. These problems can produce seizures, unusual body movements, a loss of consciousness or changes in consciousness, as well as mental problems or problems with the senses.

How do members experience epilepsy?

Top 5 symptoms reported by people with epilepsy*

*Reports may be affected by other conditions and/or medication side effects. We ask about general symptoms (anxious mood, depressed mood, fatigue, pain, and stress) regardless of condition.

Top treatments taken by people for epilepsy*

*Data from patients with epilepsy, who have ever reported treatments, ordered by their reporting frequency during the last 5 years.

Compare treatments taken by people with epilepsy*

Treatment
Perceived effectiveness
Side effects
Total evaluations
Tried for
Treatment

(Keppra)
Perceived effectiveness
for epilepsy (8 evaluations)
Side effects
dizziness hyperactivity 4 more
Total evaluations
8
Tried for
epilepsy (11)
Treatment

(Lamictal)
Perceived effectiveness
for epilepsy (2 evaluations)
Side effects
Total evaluations
2
Tried for
epilepsy (9)
Treatment

(Klonopin)
Perceived effectiveness
for epilepsy (7 evaluations)
Side effects
balance problems stiffness/spasticity
Total evaluations
7
Tried for
epilepsy (4)
Treatment

(Depakote)
Perceived effectiveness
for epilepsy (2 evaluations)
Side effects
diarrhea dizziness 5 more
Total evaluations
2
Tried for
epilepsy (4)
Treatment

(Vimpat)
Perceived effectiveness
No evaluations
Side effects
No evaluations
Total evaluations
0
Tried for
epilepsy (4)

*Data from patients with epilepsy, who have ever reported treatments, ordered by their reporting frequency during the last 5 years.

Who has epilepsy on PatientsLikeMe?

Age

Age Proportion # of patients
<20 243
20s 680
30s 2,086
40s 2,711
50s 2,606
60s 1,834
70+ 716

Distribution of sex

Sex

Sex Proportion # of patients
Male 3,400
Female 7,475