Seizures

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They can lead to changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Seizures can affect people of all ages and may be triggered by various underlying conditions. While some are mild and go unnoticed, others can be severe and life-threatening. Understanding seizures is crucial for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and proper management.

What Causes Seizures?

They occur due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Several factors can contribute to this disruption, including:

• Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
• Head Injury: Trauma to the brain can trigger seizures.
• Stroke: A lack of oxygen to the brain can cause seizures.
• Brain Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis, or other infections can lead to seizures.
• High Fever: Febrile seizures occur in young children due to sudden temperature spikes.
• Brain Tumors: Abnormal growths in the brain may disrupt normal electrical activity.
• Genetic Factors: Some individuals inherit conditions that make them prone to seizures.
• Metabolic Imbalances: Low blood sugar, low sodium, or kidney or liver failure can trigger seizures.
• Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal: Sudden cessation from certain substances may result in seizures.
• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can lower the seizure threshold.
• Certain Medications: Some drugs may increase seizure susceptibility.

Types of Seizures

They are classified into two major categories: focal and generalized seizures.

1. Focal (Partial) Seizures

These originate in a specific area of the brain and can be divided into:

• Focal Aware Seizures: The person remains conscious but experiences unusual sensations, emotions, or movements.
• Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures: Consciousness is altered, and the person may appear confused, unaware, or perform involuntary movements like lip-smacking or hand rubbing.

2. Generalized Seizures

These involve both hemispheres of the brain and include:

• Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal): Characterized by loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening (tonic phase), followed by jerking movements (clonic phase).
• Absence Seizures (Petit Mal): Brief episodes of staring and unresponsiveness, common in children.
• Myoclonic Seizures: Sudden, brief jerking or twitching of muscles.
• Tonic Seizures: Muscle stiffness, typically affecting the back, arms, and legs.
• Atonic Seizures (Drop Attacks): Sudden loss of muscle control, leading to falls.
• Clonic Seizures: Repetitive jerking movements without the stiffening phase seen in tonic-clonic seizures.

Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Seizure symptoms vary based on the type but may include:

• Sudden, uncontrolled muscle movements (convulsions)
• Loss of consciousness or awareness
• Staring spells
• Temporary confusion or disorientation
• Repetitive movements like chewing or blinking
• Uncontrollable jerking or twitching of limbs
• Sudden falls or loss of muscle tone
• Unusual sensations such as tingling, dizziness, or visual disturbances
• Emotional or behavioral changes, including fear or déjà vu sensations

Diagnosis

To diagnose seizures, a healthcare provider may conduct the following tests:

• Medical History: Evaluating past incidents, family history, and potential triggers.
• Neurological Examination: Assessing brain and nervous system functions.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measuring electrical activity in the brain to detect abnormal patterns.
• Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans can help identify brain abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: Checking for infections, metabolic disorders, or genetic conditions.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): To rule out infections in the brain and spinal cord.

Seizures treatment and management

Seizure management depends on the underlying cause and seizure type. Common treatment options include:

1. Medications

Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are the primary treatment for seizure control. Some commonly prescribed AEDs include:

• Phenytoin
• Valproic Acid
• Carbamazepine
• Levetiracetam
• Lamotrigine

2. Lifestyle Modifications

• Ensuring adequate sleep
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs
• Managing stress levels
• Maintaining a balanced diet

3. Ketogenic Diet

A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet can be beneficial for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy.

4. Surgery

In cases where medication fails, brain surgery may be an option to remove or alter the affected area.

5. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

A device implanted under the skin sends electrical pulses to the brain to prevent seizures.

6. Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)

A device detects abnormal brain activity and delivers electrical stimulation to prevent seizures.

Seizure First Aid: What to Do During a Seizure

If someone experiences a seizure:

1. Stay Calm: Keep yourself and others around the person composed.
2. Ensure Safety: Move sharp objects away and cushion their head.
3. Turn Them on Their Side: Prevent choking if they vomit.
4. Do Not Restrain: Let the seizure run its course.
5. Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth: This can cause injury.
6. Time the Seizure: If it lasts more than five minutes, seek medical help.
7. Stay with Them: Offer reassurance once they regain consciousness.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Help

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• A seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
• The person has repeated seizures without regaining consciousness.
• The person experiences difficulty breathing after the seizure.
• The seizure occurs in water.
• It’s their first-ever seizure.
• The person has an underlying health condition like diabetes or heart disease.

Preventing Seizures

While not all seizures can be prevented, some strategies can help reduce the risk:

• Take prescribed medications regularly.
• Get sufficient sleep.
• Manage stress effectively.
• Avoid seizure triggers like flashing lights (for photosensitive epilepsy).
• Follow a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Wear medical identification if prone to seizures.

Seizures can be alarming, but understanding their causes, types, and management options can empower individuals and caregivers to respond effectively. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures, most people with seizures can lead normal and fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know experiences seizures, seeking medical attention and support is essential for optimal management and care.

To consult a Neurologist at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, call our helpline number 9830117733.

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Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.