Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by seizures caused by disturbed electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be partial, involving one area of the brain, or generalized, involving both sides. Common types of generalized seizures include absence seizures, grand mal seizures, myoclonic seizures, and atonic seizures. The underlying mechanism of seizures involves excessive glutamate signaling and imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission. Diagnosis involves EEG and imaging scans while treatment focuses on anticonvulsant drugs that block sodium channels, enhance GABA activity, or slow sodium inactivation.