Seizures: Signs, Causes & Treatment

When To Go To The ER

Recognizing the appropriate time to seek emergency medical attention is crucial when dealing with seizures. Listed below are some scenarios where a visit to the Emergency Room (ER) is warranted: Loss of Consciousness: If someone has a seizure especially lasting more than five minutes, they need medical help right away. Head Injury: Seizures occurring after a head injury, even if it seems mino

What is a Seizure?

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain that can manifest in various ways. These disturbances can lead to temporary changes in behavior, movements, or consciousness.

Focal Onset

Focal onset seizures, also known as partial seizures, originate in a specific area of the brain. They can result from various focal injuries, including trauma, stroke, or developmental scars. Focal seizures may begin with an aura and can progress to altered awareness or complex partial seizures.

Generalized Onset

Generalized onset seizures involve abnormal nerve discharges that affect both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously. These seizures are characterized by three distinct types: Absence Seizures, Myoclonic Seizures, and Tonic and Atonic Seizures.

Absence Seizures ("Petit Mal Seizures")

Commonly seen in childhood, absence seizures are often referred to as "Petit Mal Seizures." The seizures manifest as brief moments of staring, where individuals appear momentarily distant. Typically lasting a few seconds, these episodes may go unnoticed. While many children outgrow absence seizures, some cases persist into adulthood, possibly evolving into tonic-clonic seizures. Juvenile absence

Myoclonic Seizures

Myoclonic seizures are known for their sudden and abrupt jerks or twitches in the body or limbs. These seizures tend to occur in clusters and are commonly experienced in the morning. These seizures can be part of a syndrome called juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, where individuals may also experience tonic-clonic seizures. Myoclonic seizures can also be associated with other epilepsy-related conditi

Tonic Seizures

Tonic seizures involve sudden and intense stiffness in the arms, back, and legs, leading to falls and potential injuries. Individuals with multiple brain injuries and intellectual disabilities may experience tonic seizures

Atonic Seizures ("Drop Attacks/Drop Seizures")

Atonic seizures involve a sudden loss of muscle control, resulting in collapsing and potential injuries.

Tonic-Clonic Seizures ("Grand Mal Seizures")

Tonic-clonic seizures, previously termed grand mal seizures, can arise from various seizure types, such as focal or generalized seizures. These are the most dramatic epileptic seizures, characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness, body stiffening, and shaking. Tonic-clonic seizures may lead to loss of bladder control or biting of the tongue and can last several minutes. Understanding these s

Signs of a Seizure

Temporary confusion Staring spell Uncontrollable jerking movements of arms and legs Loss of consciousness or awareness Cognitive or emotional changes, including fear, anxiety, or déjà vu If someone exhibits these signs, seeking immediate medical help is crucial.