Adult Epilepsy Care
Seizures & Epilepsy in Adults — Expert Evaluation in SE Houston
A first seizure as an adult is alarming and demands prompt expert evaluation. Whether you experienced an isolated episode or have been living with epilepsy for years, Dr. Vanessa Mbanga, MD provides fellowship-level epilepsy care for adults in Pasadena and Houston, TX.
Epilepsy affects 3.4 million adults in the United States. With the right specialist and treatment, approximately 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free. For the 30% who do not respond to initial medications, advanced options — including dietary therapy and referral for surgical evaluation — can offer additional control.
Dr. Mbanga completed her epilepsy fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine with advanced EEG interpretation training at Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center. She treats both new-onset adult seizures and complex, long-standing epilepsy.
Adult Seizure Types We Treat
- First unprovoked seizure — new onset
- Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures
- Focal (partial) seizures
- Absence seizures in adults
- Post-stroke seizures
- Drug-resistant epilepsy
- Autoimmune epilepsy
- Seizures related to brain tumors or trauma
What Causes Seizures in Adults?
Adult seizures can have many underlying causes. Common ones include:
Epilepsy
Recurrent unprovoked seizures — the most common cause
Stroke / TIA
Seizures can occur after ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke
Head Injury
Post-traumatic seizures following brain injury
Autoimmune
Immune system attacking the brain causing seizures
Medication
Withdrawal from certain drugs or alcohol
Unknown
In many cases of epilepsy, no specific cause is found
How We Evaluate Adult Seizures
A first adult seizure or new epilepsy diagnosis requires a thorough workup to identify the cause and guide treatment:
- 1
Full neurological history & exam
Review of episode details, medications, triggers, family history, and neurological examination.
- 2
EEG brain testing
Painless recording of brain electrical activity. Interpreted by Dr. Mbanga — fellowship-trained in EEG.
- 3
Treatment & lifestyle plan
Personalized medication selection, driving guidance, employment considerations, and seizure safety planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adults develop epilepsy for the first time?
Yes. Epilepsy can begin at any age. In adults, new-onset epilepsy is often related to stroke, brain injury, brain tumors, or other neurological conditions — though in many cases no specific cause is found. Any first adult seizure requires prompt neurological evaluation. See our epilepsy specialist page →
Do I need to stop driving after a seizure?
In Texas, a seizure must be reported to the Texas Department of Public Safety. You are required to remain seizure-free for a physician-specified period before driving again. Dr. Mbanga will provide guidance specific to your situation and seizure type.
How is adult epilepsy treated?
Anti-seizure medications are the first-line treatment. With the right medication, about 70% of adults achieve seizure freedom. For drug-resistant cases, dietary therapy (ketogenic diet), neuromodulation devices, or surgical referral may be considered. Dr. Mbanga will discuss all options at your appointment.
What is the difference between epilepsy and a single seizure?
A single seizure does not always mean epilepsy. Epilepsy is typically diagnosed after two or more unprovoked seizures, or after one seizure with a high risk of recurrence based on EEG or MRI findings. Dr. Mbanga will review your test results to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Your Epilepsy Specialist
Dr. Vanessa Mbanga, MD
Epileptologist & Pediatric Neurologist
Baylor Epilepsy Fellowship · Texas Children's Hospital