What Are Seizures?
Seizures are sudden, uncontrollable electrical disturbances in the brain. When pathways of communication between neurons (nerve cells) in the brain are disrupted, the opportunity for seizures arises.
Symptoms of Seizures
- Temporary confusion
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the legs and arms
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Cognitive changes
- Emotional symptoms, like fear or anxiety
Causes of Seizures
Seizures can arise during serious health issues, such as strokes or infections like meningoencephalitis. They may also be triggered by alcohol intake, sleep deprivation, flashing lights, moving patterns, stress, dehydration, skipped meals, or hormonal changes associated with menstruation.
When Seizures Don’t Stop
Prolonged seizures lasting over five minutes should be potentially considered and treated as status epilepticus, a form of prolonged seizures significantly associated with disease (morbidity) and death (mortality).
Status Epilepticus
Status epilepticus is characterized as a prolonged seizure or series of multiple or continuous seizures without full recovery of consciousness between them. This condition can last over 30 minutes and is considered a medical emergency.
Alcohol or Drug Withdrawal
Withdrawal from alcohol or sedating drugs can take a toll on a person’s body and can cause a variety of related health problems. It is common for a person to have withdrawal seizures, also known as “rum fits,” during the abrupt end of alcohol intake after a long period of heavy drinking.
Car Accidents
Driving is often a common concern for those dealing with epilepsy due to the possibility of unprovoked seizures occurring while the individual is behind the wheel. It is essential that you refrain from driving after a seizure and return to this activity only if and when cleared by a qualified medical professional and in accordance with your state’s laws.
Aspiration
Aspiration is the inhalation of a substance or object. During a seizure, food, digestive fluid, vomit, or other material may get into the airways or lungs.
Treatment for Seizures
In the case that potentially dangerous seizures arise, emergency evaluation is necessary. These include first time, withdrawal-based, unexplained and/or increased seizures, and persistent seizures. Contact your local emergency service via telephone and summon an ambulance.
Summary
Many individuals live with seizure disorders that cause events regularly despite optimal treatment. When these events are well characterized and proper precautions are taken, individuals will not need hospitalization or significant changes to their healthcare plan.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know might be at risk of status epilepticus, SUDEP, or other injuries associated with seizures, talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about how you can reduce these potential risks.
FAQs
- What is status epilepticus? Status epilepticus is a prolonged seizure or series of multiple or continuous seizures without full recovery of consciousness between them.
- What is the risk of aspiration during a seizure? Aspiration is the inhalation of a substance or object. During a seizure, food, digestive fluid, vomit, or other material may get into the airways or lungs.
- How can I reduce the risk of seizures? Reducing the risk of seizures requires a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and emergency preparedness.
- What are the symptoms of a seizure? Symptoms of a seizure include temporary confusion, uncontrollable jerking movements of the legs and arms, loss of consciousness or awareness, cognitive changes, and emotional symptoms, like fear or anxiety.
