Rs Neurology

What is a seizure?

A seizure occurs when there is a burst of uncontrolled electrical activity within the brain.

There are different types of seizures. Seizures can be sorted two broad categories:

Focal Seizures. Focal seizures are seizures which have a specific focus or area where the seizure begins. In these types of seizures, seizure activity is limited to one part of the brain. When the seizure begins, seizure activity may stay localised in that one area or may spread to other areas and hemispheres of the brain.

The most common forms of focal seizures are:

• Focal seizures with retained awareness
  • It does not impair awareness or consciousness
  • Person experiencing the seizure will be able to remember it after
• Focal seizure with loss of awareness
  • Awareness and consciousness is impaired
  • Person may be unable to respond

Generalized Seizures. Generalised seizures take place when abnormal activity (seizure activity) takes place in both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously. Generalized seizures may result in a loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, and body convulsions.

What is it like to have a seizure?

Seizures present differently for different people. However, here are some common signs that may indicate that someone is having a seizure:

• Shock-like jerks in one or both arms
• Puckering or smacking of lips
• Jerking of jaw
• Rhythmic jerking of legs

Right before a seizure, you may experience an odd, out of body experience. You may also become overwhelmed with unusual smells or taste.

What causes seizures?

Some underlying medical conditions which may cause seizures include:

• Epilepsy. Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder that causes individuals to have  recurrent, unprovoked seizures.
• Neuro-infections. Neuroinfections occur when pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi or prion invade the nervous system through the bloodstream or peripheral nerves.
• Stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either because the arteries leading to your brain are blocked or burst.
• Brain tumours. Brain tumours are masses of abnormal cells that grow within the skull.

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if:

• You experience a seizure for the first time
• Your seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes
• You remained unconscious even after the seizure ended

Anti-epileptic medications are the mainstay of treatment for seizures. Duration and type of medication, usually varies and decided by the neurologist in charge.