Seizure is caused by sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This can lead to uncontrolled shaking or jerking movements affecting part or all of the body. Some people may experience altered awareness or sensations during a seizure.
Early and accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause is important. This involves detailed analysis of the seizure type, symptoms, and triggers through medical history, neurological exam, and diagnostic tests.
Once diagnosed, treatment involves identifying and reducing triggers as well as medication to control the electrical activity in the brain. The treatment includes preventing injuries during seizures, reducing seizure frequency to improve quality of life, allowing people to drive or hold jobs, and stopping seizures completely if possible.
The causes of seizures can vary widely and often remain unknown. Some common triggers include:
Many seizures, particularly generalized seizures, may have a genetic component, although not all individuals with seizures have a family history.
Scars, lesions, brain injuries, or brain malformations (such as those from trauma, strokes, or infections like meningitis) are common causes of focal seizures.
Conditions like brain tumors, infections, metabolic disorders, or neurological disorders can contribute to seizure activity.
Factors such as sleep deprivation, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and hormonal changes may also increase seizure risk.
The symptoms of seizures vary depending on the type and area of the brain involved. Common symptoms include:
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and the duration typically lasts between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes require immediate medical attention.
There are 2 types of Seizures that are broadly categorized: focal seizures and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures:
Focal Onset Seizures:
Focal Seizures
Focal Onset Seizures:
It begins in one part of the brain and may spread. They can be further divided into:
Focal Seizures with Impaired Awareness are often linked to brain injuries, strokes, or developmental abnormalities.
Generalized Onset Seizures: Electrical activity occurs across both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously.
Common in children, marked by brief lapses in awareness, staring, or minor movements like blinking or lip-smacking.
Cause stiffening of muscles, particularly in the arms and legs, leading to falls or injuries.
Atonic Seizures: Result in sudden loss of muscle tone, causing “drop attacks” where the person collapses.
Clonic Seizures: Characterized by rhythmic jerking movements on both sides of the body.
Myoclonic Seizures: Cause brief, sudden jerks of the arms or legs but without loss of consciousness.
Diagnosing seizures involves a detailed evaluation by healthcare professionals, including:
A thorough understanding of the patient’s medical history, including any head trauma, family history of seizures, and medication use.
Helps assess cognitive, motor, and sensory functions.
EEG (Electroencephalogram): Detects abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Imaging Tests (MRI/CT): Identify structural abnormalities such as brain lesions or scars.
Blood Tests: Check for metabolic or genetic causes.
Keeping a seizure diary helps identify patterns and triggers, which aids in diagnosis and treatment.
Seizures are primarily managed through medication, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes surgical intervention.
Anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are prescribed to reduce seizure frequency and severity. Common medications include levetiracetam, lamotrigine, valproate, and carbamazepine.
Sleep and Stress Management: Sleep deprivation and stress are common triggers for seizures.
Diet Therapy: The ketogenic diet (high-fat, low-carb) is often used, especially in children with refractory seizures.
Epilepsy Surgery: Suitable for patients with focal seizures caused by brain lesions.
Neuromodulation Devices: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS) may be recommended for those who do not respond well to medications.
At Buddhi Clinic, we offer expert, comprehensive care for individuals with seizures. Our multidisciplinary team of neurologists, epileptologists, and specialized care providers ensures personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
We use advanced diagnostic tools like EEGs and MRIs, combined with the latest in medication, diet therapy, and surgical options, to provide the most effective care. With a focus on patient-centered support, we are committed to improving quality of life for individuals living with seizures.
If you or a loved one are seeking expert care for seizures, please reach out to Buddhi Clinic. Our team is here to provide compassionate, personalized support.
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