What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is the tendency to have seizures that start in the brain.

Over 600,000 people in the UK have epilepsy. However, up to 70% (7 in 10) of people with epilepsy could have their seizures controlled with the right medication. 

There are many types of seizure. In some types, the person loses consciousness and jerks and shakes. In other types, they become confused or blank and may not know what they are doing.

How does epilepsy affect work?

Whether someone’s epilepsy affects their job depends on whether they have seizures, what their seizures are like and how often they happen. It also depends on the type of job they do, and any risks having seizures at work might bring. 

Epilepsy Society is grateful to Emily Peoples, HR Business Partner, Epilepsy Society, who reviewed this information.

Information updated: April 2024