Epilepsy applies to numerous nervous system disorders that result in abnormal electrical discharges of brain cells. This produces seizures that may cause convulsive movements, or partial or total loss of consciousness. Only a small percentage of people with epilepsy also have mental retardation. Scientific advances have made it possible to control many forms of epilepsy. As a result, most people with the condition lead normal lives. When medication is not effective, specialized medical services, vocational programs and in-home and out-of-home residential services are available. Nearly 60,000 New Yorkers are believed to have epilepsy.