While thats one of the faces of epilepsy, the seizure disorder doesnt always look that way.

Our whole body is an electrical system.

It could be temporary or it could be a chronic problem.

Image may contain Lighting Clothing Apparel Human Person Light and Flare

Svenja Pitz / Getty Images

A disorder is when this problem becomes chronic.

Here, Dr. Tolbert explains whats actually going on when you have a seizure disorder.

For many, the cause is unknown.

If your epilepsy is genetic, youd likely be diagnosed early in life, Dr. Tolbert says.

A seizure diagnosis later in life is usually because something caused it, she says.

For a young adult, the most common cause is trauma.

It typically doesnt turn into a disorder, she adds.

As soon as you treat the cause, it has a really good prognosis.

But for some, brain infections or injuries can lead to the development of seizure disorder.

Epilepsy can also be caused later in life by a neurodegenerative disease likeParkinsonsorAlzheimers.

There are a lot of things that can cause seizures, Dr. Tolbert says.

Other medical problems like high fever and low blood sugar can cause seizures.

If you ever have a seizure, though, you shouldsee a doctorto find out what caused it.

Other times theyre so subtle they can go unnoticed.

It can be as subtle as a blank stare or loss of consciousness, says Dr. Tolbert.

Think about your brain just checking out for a minute.

Theyre not painful, but Dr. Tolbert notes that sometimes people can injure themselves mid-seizure.

Flashing lights can trigger it, not gettingsleepor being tired can trigger it, Dr. Tolbert says.

According to the CDC, hormonal changes during menstruation can trigger seizures in people with periods who have epilepsy.

Talk with your doctor about the best way to manage your epilepsy before trying to conceive.

Most patients have a very good prognosis, Dr. Tolbert says.

But drugs typically only work for about two-thirds of people with epilepsy, the CDC notes.

For some people who have focal seizures, surgery to remove the problem area may be a better option.

For those who dont find success with medicines or surgery, nerve stimulation may help.

We really emphasize healthy lifestyle and exercise, says Dr. Tolbert.