Doctor's Notes on Seizures (Epilepsy)
A seizure is abnormal and uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, that may result in a physical convulsion, minor physical signs thought disturbances or a combination of symptoms. There are different types of seizures, depending primarily on what part of the brain is involved.
Symptoms of seizures may range from jerking movements in a single extremity to abnormal movements throughout the entire body. Symptoms depend on which area of the brain the seizure originates. Some seizures may cause
- strange sensations,
- small repetitive movements such as picking at clothes or lip-smacking,
- blank staring,
- crying out or making some sound,
- stiffening for a few seconds,
- the appearance of not breathing,
- a dazed or confused appearance,
- impaired consciousness, or repetitive blinking or other small movements,
- loss of bladder or bowel control,
- biting one’s own tongue, and a gradual return to consciousness, and
- confusion following the seizure.
What Is the Treatment for a Seizure?
The treatment of a seizure will depend upon what type of seizure you had and what caused the seizure. If someone is actively having a seizure follow these steps:
- Call 9-1-1
- Make sure the patient is safe by clearing the area around them of hazards
- If vomiting occurs turn the patient on their side
- DO NOT stick anything in the patient’s mouth to prevent them from biting their tongue, it is dangerous and unnecessary
- Stay with the patient as they wake up
- They may be confused at first (this can be normal after a seizure)
- Benzodiazepines are often started by first responders or medical providers during an acute seizure
Depending on the cause and type of seizure, medications are often started. While doctors are figuring out the cause of the seizures, or if it is unclear, broad-spectrum anti-seizure medications may be started. Broad-spectrum anti-seizure medications include:
- Valproic acid or divalproex (Depakote)
- Phenytoin (Dilantin)
- Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
- Levetiracetam (Keppra)
- Felbamate (Felbatol)
- Topiramate (Topamax)
- Zonisamide (Zonegran)
While taking anti-seizure medication, do not start taking any other medications including over-the-counter (OTC) medications and herbal supplements without first checking with your doctor. Anti-seizure medications can interact with many other prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, so mixing them can be dangerous.
Epilepsy & Seizures : What Causes Seizures? Quiz
QuestionIf you have had a seizure, it means you have epilepsy.
See AnswerMust Read Articles:
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Do Seizures Kill Brain Cells?
Seizures are caused by a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can affect the way a person appears or acts for a short time. Seizures (both repetitive and brief seizures) can kill brain cells (neurons). -
Febrile Seizures (Seizures and Fever)
Febrile seizures, also known as convulsions, body spasms, or shaking, occur mainly in children and are caused by fever. (Febrile is derived from the Latin febris, meaning fever.) -
Seizures Emergencies
Seizures refer to uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. Symptoms of seizures range from mild to severe and can lead to death. A number of factors can lead to seizures, including brain tumor, injury, and fever. Emergency treatment for seizures can include antiseizure medications to help prevent seizures emergencies. -
Seizures in Children
A seizure occurs when the brain functions abnormally, and can affect different parts of the brain and body. The types of seizures which most often occur in children are febrile, neonatal, and epileptic. Seizures may be partial or general. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the seizures. -
Transient Ischemic Attack (Mini-Stroke)
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, is often a warning sign of a future stroke - you should call paramedics right away (dial 911 in the U.S.). Blood clots, occluded arteries and leaking blood vessels caused by high blood pressure may cause TIAs. Symptoms: include neurologic deficits, speech problems, vision problems, and confusion. -
What Are the Three Types of Seizures?
Seizures are caused by a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can affect how a person appears or acts, but for a short period of time. The types of seizures include generalized onset seizures, focal onset seizures, and unknown onset seizures. -
What Can Cause Seizures?
Seizures occur when there is a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that usually affects how a person appears or acts for a short time. -
What Causes Tonic Seizures?
Seizures are caused by a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can be due to many different conditions. Common triggers for tonic seizures may include stress, lack of sleep, waking up, missed medications, drinking alcohol/alcohol withdrawal, some medications, illegal drug use, menstrual cycle or other hormonal changes, and others.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.