Seizure Patient Information

Seizures are frightening experiences for the sufferer and her loved ones. Fortunately, most seizures last less than two minutes and cause no permanent harm. In some cases, however, seizures may recur and interfere with daily life. Symptoms, treatment and prognosis depend on where in the brain the seizures occur, the type of seizure experienced, the cause of the seizure and the overall severity of the illness.

Types

• There are many different types of seizures, but most seizures are classified into two basic groups: partial seizures and generalized seizures. Focal seizures result when abnormal electrical activity occurs in one part of the brain, and include simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures. When abnormal activity occurs on both sides of the brain, a generalized seizure occurs. Generalized seizures can be broken down into absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, atonic seizures and tonic-clonic seizures. Febrile seizures are a type of seizure that develops in response to high fever.

Causes

• Seizures occur when there is a burst of rapid, abnormal electrical activity somewhere in the brain. Epilepsy is a medical disorder that causes recurring seizures. Other causes of seizures include head trauma, high fever, stroke, brain tumors, meningitis, reactions to certain medications and diseases such as diabetes. Any health condition or situation that causes a sudden lack of oxygen to the brain can potentially cause a seizure.

Symptoms

• Contrary to what many people believe, not all seizures cause obvious symptoms such as convulsions. The specific symptoms experienced during a seizure depend on what part of the brain is affected. Staring episodes, automated movements, sudden falls, unusual sensations, loss of consciousness, inability to speak and muscle spasms may all be caused by seizure activity. Memory loss and drowsiness may follow a seizure.

Treatment

• Anyone having a seizure should be moved to the floor or a safe area, and tight clothing around the head or neck should be removed. It is important not to place any objects into the person's mouth or attempt to restrain him in any way. Doing so can cause serious injury. Emergency medical services should be called if the person has never had a seizure before, if he has suffered a head injury, has a heart condition, has difficulty breathing, or has ingested any medications or poisons. Recurrent seizures are usually treated with anti-convulsant medications, but surgery, vagus nerve stimulation and dietary changes are other options.

Considerations

• Most seizures last two minutes or less and do not cause permanent brain damage. When a seizure lasts longer than five minutes or when multiple seizures occur in rapid succession, it is a medical emergency called status epilepticus. Status epilepticus is potentially fatal and may result in long-term neurological disability. Do not give any food or drink to someone recovering from a seizure, and do not attempt to wake someone who is sleeping following a seizure.