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This article is from the Epilepsy FAQ, by Andrew Patrick (andrew@calvin.dgbt.doc.ca) with numerous contributions by others.

01 What does "Epilepsy" mean?

The word "Epilepsy" is derived from a Greek word meaning "a condition
of being overcome, seized, or attacked." People used to believe that
the seizure was caused by a demon, and Epilepsy became known as a
sacred disease. This is the background to the myths and fears that
surround Epilepsy; myths that colour people's attitudes and make the
goal of a normal life more difficult than it needs to be be for people
who have Epilepsy. The word "Epilepsy" means nothing more than the
tendency to have seizures.

 

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