A few things to look out for (especially in children) are:

• Short blackouts
• Periods of confused memory
• Occasional "fainting spells" in which bladder or bowel control is lost, followed by extreme fatigue
• Episodes of blank starring in children
• Brief periods of no response to questions or instructions
• Sudden falls in a child for no apparent reason
• Episodes of blinking or chewing at inappropriate times
• A convulsion, with or without fever

The only way to really identify epilepsy is to have a physician perform a series of diagnostic tests.  First, they will take a careful medical history to understand more about any seizures or episodes.  They will also use an electroencephalograph (EEG).  This will show your brain wave patterns and help the doctor determine whether or not you had a seizure.  CT scans or MRI machines may be used to help identify any growths or scar tissues that may be causing the seizures. 

For people susceptible to seizures, the “triggers”- environmental factors that cause them- can be anything.  It is unique to the person.  Some which are common amongst several people include:

• Drinking alcohol
• Strong emotions
• Intense exercise
• Flashing lights
• Loud music
• Illness or fever
• Lack of sleep
• Stress
• Menstrual period
• Hormonal changes
• Drug use
• Missed medication
• Poor nutrition
• Extreme fatigue
• Low blood sugar