What is the difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon ?
A neurologist and a neurosurgeon are similar to a cardiologist and a cardiac surgeon; the neurosurgeon employs surgical means to treat neurological disorders, while the neurologist identifies neurological disorders through diagnostic testing and uses medical (pharmacologic) means to treat them.

What is epilepsy ?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder involving recurrent seizures or temporary alteration in one or more brain functions. As an example approximately 2.3 million Americans suffer from epilepsy, according to the Epilepsy Foundation of America. An adult with uncontrolled epilepsy may not be able to work or drive a car. In children, epilepsy can interfere with learning and other cognitive functions. Epilepsy begins anywhere between the ages of 3 and 14 years and continues indefinitely.

What are seizures ?
A seizure, or convulsion, can be a sudden, violent, uncontrollable contraction of a group of muscles caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A seizure can also be more subtle, consisting of only a brief "loss of contact" (victim seems to be daydreaming) or a repetitive body movement. Epileptic seizures can be classified into two broad groups—generalized and partial. Generalized seizures affect the whole body, causing a loss of consciousness, and may arise over a wide area of the brain. Partial seizures, during which consciousness may be retained, are usually caused by damage to a more limited area of the brain. Seizures can be treated with anticonvulsant medications or surgery.

There are number of Common causes of seizures include:

++ injury or trauma to the head
++ infection
++ brain tumor (30 to 40 percent of patients with brain tumors have a seizure)
++ high fever or heatstroke
++ diabetes (seizures can occur when blood sugar level is too low)

There may be other causes of seizures, including unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors and associated complaints. It is important to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation to determine a seizure’s cause.