Conditions We Treat

Seizures

What is it?

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, sensations, or consciousness. They occur when there is a temporary disruption of the normal electrical activity in the brain, leading to abnormal neuronal firing patterns.

Symptoms

Symptoms of seizures can vary depending on the type and severity but may include:ConvulsionsInvoluntary muscle contractions or jerking movements, typically involving the arms and legs.Loss of ConsciousnessPartial or complete loss of consciousness or awareness during the seizure.Altered SensationsSensory symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or unusual smells, tastes, sounds, or visual disturbances.Staring SpellsBrief periods of blank staring or staring into space.AutomatismsInvoluntary repetitive movements such as lip-smacking, chewing, or fidgeting.ConfusionDisorientation, confusion, or difficulty speaking or understanding language during or after the seizure.Loss of ControlLoss of control over bladder or bowel function (incontinence) or sudden falls without apparent cause.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of seizures, including:EpilepsyEpilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Having epilepsy is the most significant risk factor for seizures.Brain InjuryHead trauma, stroke, brain tumor, infection, or other structural abnormalities in the brain can increase the risk of seizures.Genetic FactorsFamily history of epilepsy or genetic predisposition to seizures may increase the risk.Developmental DisordersCertain developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities may be associated with an increased risk of seizures.Brain InfectionsInfections such as meningitis, encephalitis, or other brain infections can trigger seizures.Metabolic DisordersImbalances in electrolytes, glucose levels, or other metabolic abnormalities can increase the risk of seizures.Drug WithdrawalAbrupt discontinuation of certain medications, alcohol, or illicit drugs can precipitate withdrawal seizures.

Treatment

Treatment for seizures aims to control and manage seizures effectively and may include:

‍Antiseizure Medications
‍Medications such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate, levetiracetam, or lamotrigine may be prescribed to prevent seizures and stabilize electrical activity in the brain.

‍Ketogenic Diet
‍A high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet may be recommended for individuals with medication-resistant seizures, particularly in children with epilepsy.

‍Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
‍VNS therapy involves implantation of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the vagus nerve to reduce seizure frequency and severity.

‍Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)
‍RNS therapy involves implantation of a device that detects abnormal brain activity and delivers electrical stimulation to interrupt seizures.

‍Epilepsy Surgery
‍Surgical procedures such as resection of epileptic foci, corpus callosotomy, or hemispherectomy may be considered for individuals with medically refractory seizures.

Medications‍

Antiseizure MedicationsA variety of antiseizure medications are available to treat different types of seizures, including focal seizures, generalized seizures, and epileptic syndromes.BenzodiazepinesMedications such as lorazepam, diazepam, or midazolam may be used to abort prolonged or status epilepticus seizures.Other Adjunctive MedicationsMedications such as clobazam, clonazepam, or topiramate may be used as adjunctive therapy for specific seizure types or epilepsy syndromes.

Therapies‍

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)CBT techniques may be helpful for managing anxiety, depression, or other psychological symptoms associated with epilepsy.Biofeedback TherapyBiofeedback techniques such as neurofeedback may help individuals learn to control brainwave patterns and reduce seizure frequency.Relaxation TechniquesRelaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation may help reduce stress and seizure triggers.Supportive TherapySupport groups, counseling, and education for individuals with epilepsy and their families can provide emotional support, coping strategies, and information about epilepsy management.

In conclusion, seizures are neurological events characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can manifest as changes in behavior, movements, sensations, or consciousness. Effective management of seizures often requires a comprehensive approach involving medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies. It's important for individuals with seizures to work closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and maximizes seizure control and quality of life.

We're here to help when you're ready.

Request an Appointment

Disclaimer: Here at VirtualConsultMD we welcome ALL individuals regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, sexual identity or orientation, socio-economic status, and marital status. We assure you that your beliefs and lifestyle are respected. We welcome you with complete acceptance and compassion.