How are epileptic seizures different from nonepileptic seizures?

Epileptic seizures are due to abnormal electrical discharges in the brain leading to a clinical event, while non-epileptic seizures have a different mechanism. They are thought to be less harmful to the patient and may represent an abnormal reaction to stressful events. To tell the difference between the two types of seizures may be difficult, and the diagnosis can be established only with the video-EEG monitoring. Patients who do not have epileptic seizures do not need to take any anti-convulsants. In a small percentage of patients, both epileptic and non-epileptic seizure types may co-exist.