US Medical Term · conditions
Epilepsy
Epilepsia
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Epilepsy |
| Spanish (Español) | Epilepsia |
| Chinese (中文) | 癲癇 |
| Korean (한국어) | 뇌전증 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Bệnh động kinh |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Epilepsy |
| Portuguese (Português) | Epilepsia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โรคลมชัก |
| Japanese (日本語) | てんかん |
What it means
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary from brief lapses in awareness to full-body convulsions. They may affect movement, sensation, emotions, or consciousness. Epilepsy can stem from genetics, brain injury, stroke, or infections, and sometimes the cause is unknown. It affects all ages. Seizures can often be controlled with anti-epileptic medications. Surgery, nerve stimulation devices, or specialized diets may help when medications are insufficient. Driving restrictions and safety precautions are important daily considerations.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have epilepsy and I had a seizure last week despite being on medication.
Tengo epilepsia y tuve una convulsión la semana pasada a pesar de estar con medicación.
My epilepsy is not fully controlled and I cannot drive right now.
Mi epilepsia no está completamente controlada y actualmente no puedo conducir.
Can you review my anti-seizure medications to see if the dose needs adjustment?
¿Puede revisar mis medicamentos anticonvulsivos para ver si la dosis necesita ajuste?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
G40 Epilepsy and recurrent seizuresRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026