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A seizure is a telltale symptom of an underlying neurological condition. While most people believe seizures and epilepsy are one and the same, the truth is that seizures are not always caused by epilepsy. In fact, there are various types of seizures. Each one can have a different cause and a different seizure treatment plan.
Let’s look at the causes and kinds of seizures.
Where Do Seizures Originate?
The brain controls all bodily functions and movements. It does this through electrical signals sent between neurons, or nerve cells. A seizure may develop when these signals are disrupted by trauma, chronic condition, or other factors.
What Are the Symptoms of Seizures?
Seizures have a number of different symptoms, and they vary from person to person. However, in general, the symptoms that indicate that someone is having a seizure include:
- Mental confusion
- Staring
- Anxiety
- Jerky contractions and sometimes violent muscle movements in the arms and legs
- Loss of awareness or consciousness
Seizures can develop in people of all ages, and they may happen without warning. Some people even have seizures that exhibit no real telltale symptoms whatsoever.
That said, seizures themselves are not a true disease or condition of the central nervous system. Rather, they are signs that something abnormal is happening.
What Are the Different Kinds of Seizures?
There are two main categories of seizures: focal (partial) and generalized. Focal seizures occur when abnormal electrical activity is limited to one area of the brain only. Generalized seizures involve both sides of the brain.
Here is more on each subtype of focal or generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Simple Focal Seizures
This type of seizure typically affects only one part of the body, such as an arm or leg. The person remains conscious during the seizure.
The patient may experience sensations such tingling, numbness or twitching in the affected area. Simple focal seizures are short-lived, usually lasting less than 60 seconds.
Complex Focal Seizures
These seizures can cause changes in consciousness and awareness. The person may appear confused or dazed, and movements may be repetitive and have no real purpose. These seizures typically last longer than simple focal seizures.
Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures have a number of different signs and symptoms. Neurologists and researchers divide generalized seizures into the following categories:
Absence Seizures
These seizures are often seen in children. They are characterized by brief periods of staring into space. The person may experience repetitive movements, such as blinking or chewing.
Tonic-clonic Seizures
This is the most common type of generalized seizure. They are what most people think of when they hear the word “seizure.”
A tonic-clonic seizure involves loss of consciousness, stiffening or rigidity and sometimes, rhythmic jerking motions.
Atonic Seizures
The symptoms of atonic seizures are a sudden loss of muscle tone. This causes the person to collapse or fall.
Myoclonic Seizures
These seizures involve quick muscle jerking. Myoclonic seizures also may occur in clusters, and the person is fully awake and aware during the seizure episode.
Clonic Seizures
These seizures are characterized by repeated, rhythmic jerking movements of the muscles. They may affect specific muscle groups or the entire body.
Status Epilepticus
This is a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation and treatment. Prolonged or continuous seizures without recovery in between are the main symptoms. Status epilepticus can lead to serious health complications.
Causes of Seizures
Seizures can be caused by a variety of factors such as head injuries, brain tumors, infections, genetic disorders and drug or alcohol withdrawal. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.
Seizure Triggers
Some individuals may have specific seizure triggers. These triggers can include stress, lack of sleep, flashing lights or patterns, and certain medications.
Managing Seizures
Treatment for seizures often involves medication to prevent or reduce their frequency. Other management strategies may include surgery, or a special diet may also be recommended in certain cases. Care for seizure patients is highly individualized and requires the expertise of a highly trained neurological team.
Seizures can greatly impact a person’s well-being and may require many adjustments in their day-to-day lifestyle. Individuals with seizures need a support system and must follow their treatment plan closely.
Seizure Treatment Near Me in Southeast Michigan
At Associates in Neurology, our board-certified specialists understand the complexities of seizures and the conditions that cause them. They use the latest onsite assessment tools and tests and seizure treatment plans that help patients live well with their condition.
For more information about seizures, book a consultation with one of our providers by calling (248) 478-5512, or request a visit here. We serve patients of all ages in the Southeast Michigan area with offices in Novi, Howell and Farmington Hills, MI.
