Interictal

Interictal refers to the period between seizures in a person with epilepsy. This term is used to describe the state of the brain when it is not actively experiencing a seizure. The interictal period can last from a few seconds to many days or weeks, depending on the individual's seizure frequency.

Overview

The interictal period is characterized by the absence of overt seizure activity. However, this does not mean that the brain is functioning normally. Many people with epilepsy experience neurological and psychological symptoms during the interictal period, including changes in mood, cognition, and behavior. These symptoms are often referred to as interictal epileptiform activity.

Interictal Epileptiform Activity

Interictal epileptiform activity refers to abnormal electrical activity in the brain that occurs between seizures. This activity can be detected on an electroencephalogram (EEG), a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. Interictal epileptiform activity can include spikes, sharp waves, and slow wave complexes.

Interictal Symptoms

Many people with epilepsy experience symptoms during the interictal period. These can include:

• Cognitive changes: Some people may experience difficulties with memory, attention, and other cognitive functions.
• Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are common in people with epilepsy.
• Behavioral changes: Some people may exhibit changes in behavior, such as increased aggression or irritability.

Treatment

Treatment for interictal symptoms typically involves managing the underlying epilepsy. This can include medication, surgery, or other treatments. In some cases, additional treatment may be needed to manage specific interictal symptoms.

See Also

• Epilepsy
• Seizure
• Electroencephalogram

Interictal Resources
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