Final answer:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder causing seizures due to abnormal brain activity, often treated with anticonvulsant medications or in severe cases, brain surgery. Causes can be varied and sometimes remain unknown.
Step-by-step explanation:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are disruptions in the brain's electrical activity. The causes of epilepsy are diverse and can include brain injury, disease, infection, genetic factors, or in many cases, remain unidentified. In some individuals, epilepsy develops during childhood or youth and can persist into adulthood. Understanding epilepsy involves learning about excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP), which contribute to neuronal firing and seizures when they become abnormal. Complications from severe or prolonged seizures can include organ failure and brain damage, leading to other health issues. To manage epilepsy, patients may be prescribed anticonvulsant medications, and in extreme cases, might require brain surgery to remove the affected area and prevent further seizures.