Causes of Myoclonic Seizures

Myoclonic seizures are classified as a disorder of the brain that are the result of abnormal electrical discharges that send signals to different parts of the body, resulting in different affects, depending on the area of the brain affected. There are many different types of myoclonic seizures, which, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, result in a sort of a hiccup-like reaction to such stimulus.

Main Causes of Myoclonic Seizures

• Causes of myoclonic seizures are grouped into different areas of classification, depending on which area of the brain is affected. In many cases, myoclonic seizures are caused by brain injuries, strokes and brain tumors. Lack of oxygen for any amount of time may affect brain cells and their function, and any type of injury or damage to brain cells or spinal cells may affect the body in different ways. In addition, myoclonic seizures may be caused by chemical poisoning, as well as adverse reactions to medications. Infections or other organ damage such as that to the kidneys or liver may affect interaction between cell structures that affect function and performance.

Signs and Symptoms

• Myclonic seizures may affect a single body part or the entire body. In some, typical jerking or spasmodic movements may be limited to a hand, an arm or a leg. Twitching or sudden, erratic movements may be limited to a single finger, or spread through the entire body. Some individuals may experience brief seconds of a jerking or jumping motion several times a day, while for some, these erratic movements are chronic.

Physical Manifestations

• The actual physical result of myoclonic seizures affect the muscles of the body. Nerves carry impulses from the brain, down the spinal cord and to nerves in the body to move a certain way. With myoclonic seizures, uncontrollable and erratic movement of single muscles or entire muscle groups occur. This sudden jolt of electrical impulses literally causes limbs to flail, subtly or not, in a specific manner and sometimes even in a specific direction. Most commonly a person will experience either a flexion muscle reaction, which propels forward-motion or inward movements, or extensors muscle reaction, which produces arching or extensions of muscles.

Increased Risk

• Individuals who have been diagnosed with epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's may be more prone to myoclonic jerks because of the damage or destruction to normal brain signals, impulses and transmissions between the brain and the muscles. People suffering from some type of nervous system disorders or disease processes should watch for symptoms such as sudden and uncontrollable jerking movements in order to seek a diagnosis and possible treatment.

Diagnosing Myoclonic Seizures

• For many patients, a diagnosis of myoclonic seizures requires a complete and detailed personal history, in addition to diagnostic testing that may include an EEG (electroencephalograph). Medications to reduce symptoms is the basis of most treatment protocols at this point in time.