General Health InformationFebruary 26, 2026🔄 Updated: Jul 12, 2026⏱ 18 min

Have you ever had this happen to you? Let's learn exactly what a seizure is!

Creator: Dr. Priya Sammani
Published: 2026-02-26T11:45:10.000Z

Dr. Priya Sammani, MBBS, PG Dip. FMMedical Verification

Today we are going to talk about a somewhat sensitive topic, and one that many people are not very familiar with. That is a seizure, or as it is called in English, a ``Seizure''. You may have heard of it, or perhaps you have seen it. However, it is very important to know about it. Because, if something like this happens to someone, it will help you not to cause unnecessary fear, as well as to help you.

What is a seizure? Let's understand it simply.

Simply put, a seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in our brain. Think of it like a complex computer system. It contains millions of nerve cells called neurons. These communicate with each other through small electrical signals. So, if for some reason there is a sudden disruption in this electrical signal system, or there is too much electrical activity, that is when a seizure occurs. When most people think of a seizure, they think of a severe condition where the body shakes and they lose consciousness. That is one symptom. However, not all seizures are the same. Sometimes a person may stop what they are doing and stare blankly for a while. Another person may have a twitching or twitching arm or leg, or their muscles may twitch. Some people may only have one seizure in their lifetime. Others may have several seizures a day. This means that if you have a seizure, it may be very different from what someone else has. There can be many reasons for this. Because there are many things that can disrupt the normal electrical patterns in the brain. It can be caused by anything from changes in blood sugar levels to an illness, accident, or underlying medical condition. That's why it's important to see a doctor to find out what treatment is right for you.

What are the types of seizures?

There are two main types of seizures. Let's take a look at what they are. 1. Generalized Seizures: This is when electrical activity starts on both sides of the brain at the same time. During this time, your body may twitch on both sides, just one side may twitch, or you may stop what you were doing and just stare. Although these usually occur more in young children or young adults, this condition can occur in anyone of any age. 2. Focal Seizures: This is when electrical activity starts on one side of the brain, or in one specific area (`(focus)`). Symptoms usually affect one side of the body, and you may or may not be conscious. This means that you may or may not remember the seizure. Focal seizures can sometimes be focal or spread to both sides of the brain.

A little more information about the types of generalized seizures

There are also different types of generalized seizures. Let's take a look at that as well:

Absence Seizures: In this, you suddenly stop what you were doing and stare blankly. You return to normal within a few seconds. An outside observer may not even notice this.
Atonic Seizures (Drop Seizures): In this, there is a sudden loss of muscle control, causing the person to fall to the ground. This is also called `(Drop Seizures)`.
Clonic Seizures: This can cause a jerking sensation on both sides of the body and loss of consciousness. Or it can cause a jerking sensation on one side of the body without loss of consciousness.
Myoclonic Seizures: These are sudden jerks of one or several muscles in the body, as if they were struck by an electric shock.
Secondary Generalized Seizures: In this, a focal seizure (meaning electrical activity starts in one part of the brain) first occurs, and then it becomes a generalized seizure (meaning electrical activity spreads to both sides of the brain).
Tonic-Clonic Seizures: This is the most severe type that most people think of when they hear the word " seizure ." Muscles stiffen (tonic), loss of consciousness, and then the body jerks (clonic).
Tonic Seizures: In this, there is loss of consciousness and muscle rigidity, but no convulsions occur.

Let's also learn about the types of focal seizures.

There are also two main types of focal seizures:
Focal Onset Aware Seizures (Simple Partial Seizure): In this, you are aware of the seizure and can remember it.
Focal Onset Impaired Awareness Seizures (Complex Partial Seizure): In this type of seizure, you lose consciousness and feel confused (`(confusion)`). You also have no memory of the seizure.
How common is this condition called a seizure?
Did you know that about 10% of people worldwide experience at least one seizure in their lifetime? That means it's not that uncommon.
What are the symptoms of a seizure?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the seizure. However, there are some common signs that can be seen:
Loss of consciousness.
Uncontrollable movements of body parts (e.g., convulsions, muscle spasms , jerking).
Staring blankly.
In addition to this, other features can be seen:
Sudden emotional changes (e.g., confusion, fear, happiness, anxiety ).
Toothpick .
Drooling.
Abnormal eye movements.
Loss of urinary or bowel control.
Making unusual sounds (e.g., snoring).
These symptoms are temporary, usually lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Are there stages of a seizure?
Yes, a seizure can have several stages. But not everyone experiences all of them. 1. Prodrome phase: A few days before a seizure, you may experience changes in your mood or behavior, feel dizzy, or have difficulty concentrating. Some people may also have trouble sleeping. 2. Aura phase: Just before the first symptoms of a seizure begin, you may experience changes in your vision (bright lights, distorted vision), a headache, dizziness, nausea, fear or anxiety, and changes in your senses (taste, smell, sound, touch). This is like a small warning sign before the seizure begins. 3. Ictal phase: This is when the seizure actually occurs. This is the stage where you experience the symptoms of a seizure. 4. Postictal phase: Immediately after the seizure ends, you may feel very tired, dizzy, have body aches, and experience intense emotions (such as sadness or happiness). During this stage, a person may become very sleepy.
The important thing is that not everyone experiences all of these stages. Especially the ``Aura'' stage. Often, seizures come on suddenly, and you may not feel any warning signs.
What are the warning signs before a seizure?
Some people may experience warning signs before a seizure occurs. These are similar to the ``aura'' phase.
Sensory symptoms: seeing bright lights, visual distortions, sudden sounds, unfamiliar tastes (metallic or bitter) or smells , strange skin sensations ( numbness or tingling).
Emotional changes: sudden fear or joy, deja vuThings like ``(jamais vu)`` (a new experience feels somehow familiar) or ``(jamais vu)`` (a familiar experience feels somehow new).
Autonomic symptoms: These affect the body systems that are automatically controlled by our brain. For example, sweating, drooling , an upset stomach, and pale skin.
But remember, not everyone experiences these warning signs before a seizure.
Why do these seizures occur? What are the causes?
As we have discussed before, a seizure is caused by a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. The nerve cells in our brain communicate with each other by sending electrical signals. When a seizure occurs, the affected brain cells start sending signals to other cells in the surrounding area without control. This excessive electrical activity overloads the relevant areas of the brain, which is what causes the symptoms of a seizure. The causes of seizures can be divided into two main categories, based on why they occur.
Provoked Seizures (Nonepileptic): These are caused by a trigger. That is, a temporary condition or certain circumstances can cause the seizure symptoms. These are not due to a disease called ``Epilepsy.''
Unprovoked Seizures (Epileptic): These seizures occur spontaneously, without any apparent cause. They can occur frequently. These types of seizures are the main symptom of the disease called `(Epilepsy).`
Seizures for which no exact cause can be found are also called idiopathic seizures .
Seizure Triggers
Certain things can increase the risk of having a seizure. We also call these ``Triggers''.
Abnormal blood sugar levels (low blood sugar or very high blood sugar).
Some medications, for example `(Wellbutrin®)` or `(bupropion)`.
Flashing or flickering lights.
Heat illness.
High fever.
Sleep deprivation.
Stress.
Drug use (including alcohol withdrawal).
These ``Triggers`` are not the same for everyone. If you have frequent seizures, it's a good idea to keep a record of what you were doing before a seizure. A doctor can look at that information and help you figure out what your ``Triggers`` are.
Other medical conditions that cause seizures
Many other medical conditions can cause seizures. Here are a few examples:
Brain aneurysms.
Brain tumors.
Lack of oxygen to the brain (Cerebral hypoxia).
Cerebrovascular disease.
Diabetes.
Severe head injuries, especially those resulting in loss of consciousness (Severe concussion and traumatic brain injury).
Diseases that gradually weaken the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia.
High blood pressure and seizures during pregnancy (Eclampsia).
Imbalances in body salts, especially low sodium (hyponatremia), low calcium or magnesium.
Epilepsy (recurrent seizures without a clear underlying cause).
Genetic conditions.
Other possible causes:
Hormone-related changes.
Infections, especially encephalitis, meningitis, or sepsis.
Inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions.
Mental health problems (also called ``psychogenic seizures''), e.g. ``conversion disorder''.
Problems with brain development (congenital brain abnormalities).
Strokes.
Toxic substances (such as carbon monoxide poisoning or heavy metal poisoning).
Snake bites or bites from other venomous animals.
Who is at higher risk of having a seizure?
Anyone can have a seizure at any age. However, you may be at a slightly higher risk if you:
If you have another underlying medical condition.
If someone in your family has had seizures (genetic influence).
If you are a child (under 18 years old).
If you are over 50 years old.
What are the possible complications of a seizure?
During a seizure, you may lose consciousness and fall. If you do, you may be injured by falling or by suddenly stopping what you were doing (such as driving a car, operating machinery, or climbing a height). During convulsions, your limbs may hit hard objects, causing cuts, bruises, or broken bones. Status epilepticus is a condition that occurs when a seizure lasts more than five minutes, or when another seizure occurs before you have fully recovered from one seizure. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. It can cause brain damage or even death.
Is there a connection between seizures and mental health?
Yes, seizures can have a big impact on your mental health. It is common to experience symptoms like anxiety and depression along with seizures. This is because seizures can disrupt your normal life. They can keep you away from things you enjoy. You may feel anxious and worried about having another seizure. You may lose sleep at night wondering when the next one will come. If you have a seizure in front of others, you may feel embarrassed and may not want to go out or spend time with friends. Since seizures are something that is out of your control, it is normal to have these feelings. A mental health professional can help you manage the impact that seizures are having on your emotional well-being.
How do you recognize this condition called a seizure?
A neurologist is usually the one who diagnoses a seizure. This involves a physical exam, a neurological exam, and several other tests. During these tests, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, your medical history, and your family's health history. It can be helpful to bring someone who witnessed the seizure with you to the doctor. Since you may not remember what happened, that person can explain what you saw.
What tests are done for this?
These tests can help determine whether you are having a seizure and, if so, what is causing it. An important part of diagnosing seizures is finding a specific place in the brain (`(focal point)`) where the seizure starts. Finding such a place can help your doctor plan treatment. Some of the tests used to diagnose seizures include:
Blood tests.
CT scan `(Computed tomography (CT) scan)`.
EEG test (Electroencephalogram (EEG)). This measures the electrical activity of the brain.
Genetic tests.
MRI scan `(Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI))`.
PET scan `(Positron emission tomography (PET) scan)`.
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) test.
If there is a suspicion that the seizure has caused an injury or other complication, doctors may recommend further tests. The doctor will tell you (or someone who makes medical decisions for you) which tests are recommended and why they are being done.
What are the treatments for seizures?
Treatment options vary depending on the type, severity, and cause of the seizure. Your doctor may recommend things like:
Managing underlying causes or medical conditions: The doctor will first try to treat any underlying medical conditions that are causing the seizures (e.g., stroke, low blood sugar). This can help prevent future seizures.
Taking antiseizure medications:These medications help prevent seizures or reduce the frequency of them.
Surgery: By treating the area of the brain (``focal point``) where seizures begin, surgery can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Brain stimulation: A surgeon inserts a device into the brain and delivers a mild electrical current through it. This current disrupts the brain's abnormal electrical activity and attempts to stop it. There are various methods for this, for example, `(vagus nerve stimulation)`.
If some treatments don't work, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet. Some studies have shown that a low-carb or no-carb diet (`(ketogenic diet)`) can reduce the frequency of seizures. However, research is still ongoing on this.
Seizure medications
Medications can help manage seizures in the following ways:
Stop a seizure as soon as it occurs.
Prevent future seizures.
Reduce the severity of seizures.
Reduce the frequency of seizures.
Some of the most commonly used medications for seizures are:
`Benzodiazepine`
`Carbamazepine`
`Diazepam`
`Gabapentin`
`Lamotrigine`
`Oxcarbazepine`
`Phenytoin`
`Pregabalin`
`Valproic acid`
After you start a new medication, your doctor will often see you for follow-up appointments to see how well it is working. It can take several months to find the right medication and dosage for you. Always take your medication exactly as your doctor tells you. Don't stop taking it even if you feel better. Studies have shown that about 33% of people who take antiseizure medications completely stop having seizures. Another 33% say that their seizures are less frequent after taking these medications.
Can a seizure be prevented?
Because seizures are unpredictable, they cannot be completely prevented. The best thing you can do is to avoid things that can cause seizures, or ``Triggers.'' For example, controlling your blood sugar levels, and protecting yourself from illness and injury.
What to expect if you have a seizure? What is the outlook?
Less than half of people who have had an unprovoked seizure will have another seizure. If a second seizure occurs, doctors may recommend starting antiseizure medications. In the case of a provoked seizure, the risk of having another seizure depends on what caused the first seizure. If the cause can be treated, the risk of having another seizure is low (unless the condition that caused the first seizure recurs). Medications can help prevent seizures or reduce the frequency of seizures. However, sometimes it is necessary to try several medications (or a combination of medications) to find the one that works best. In some cases, it may be difficult to control seizures with medication alone. In that case, a doctor may recommend surgery, a special diet, or other treatments. If you have frequent seizures, your doctor can help you stay safe. You can wear or carry a medical ID bracelet or card so that others know what to do if you have a seizure.
How long can a seizure last?
Seizure symptoms usually last from a few seconds to a few minutes, with a maximum duration of 15 minutes. If multiple seizures occur in a row (this is a medical emergency), symptoms may last longer.
What is the outlook for seizures?
Because everyone's seizure experience is different, the outlook can vary greatly. Your outlook may depend on several factors, including:
Have you found a reason?
Can that cause be managed or treated?
What kind of seizure did you have?
How severe was the seizure and how long did it last?
Is this your first seizure?
Do you have an underlying medical condition for which seizures are a common symptom?
What treatments are available to help manage this type of seizure?
Your doctor has the most up-to-date information about what you can expect. If you have any questions, ask them.
When should you see a doctor?
If you have a seizure for the first time in your life, or if you lose consciousness and do not know the cause, you should definitely go to the emergency room. If you are alone and think you are having a seizure for the first time, you should see or talk to a doctor immediately. If you have had a seizure before, it is important to be vigilant for another one. If you have a second seizure, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible.Seizures cause changes in your brain, making you more likely to have more seizures. Therefore, it is best to get diagnosed and treated early. For someone who has frequent seizures, it may not be necessary to call an ambulance after a seizure. However, even if you know why you had the seizure, you may have sustained injuries that require medical attention.
What questions should I ask the doctor?
If you have a seizure, you can ask your doctor questions like these:
Why did I have this seizure?
How do I avoid `(Triggers)`?
What kind of treatment do you recommend?
Are there any side effects to that treatment?
Will I have another seizure?
How can I protect myself?
What types of seizures affect children?
Children can also develop seizures. The same causes of seizures in adults often affect children. Some of the most common types of seizures and seizure disorders seen in childhood are:
Absence seizures (childhood absence epilepsy).
Epilepsy in children.
Febrile seizures (seizures that occur when the fever increases).
Infantile spasms.
Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.
Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Tonic-clonic seizures.
Is it safe to get pregnant if I have seizures?
Yes, you can have a safe pregnancy if you have seizures. However, your doctor may recommend regular checkups to monitor your health and that of your baby. Some antiseizure medications are not safe during pregnancy. Therefore, your doctor will recommend safer alternative medications to help control your symptoms. If you have any questions or concerns, your doctor is the best person to talk to. Seizures may seem like the dramatic events you see on TV or in the movies, but they can be something you or a loved one experience every day or often. They are unpleasant to experience and even more frightening to watch. You may feel out of sorts before, during, and after a seizure, and it can take time to recover. Even if your seizures are out of your control, a doctor can help you manage your symptoms. Your doctor will teach you ways to manage your underlying condition, or identify and avoid triggers. Medications can help reduce the frequency of seizures, and surgery may be an option if other treatments are not effective.
If you have any questions about what to expect if you have a seizure, or how to protect yourself or a loved one, don't hesitate to see a doctor.
Final Take-Home Message
Okay, so we've talked a lot about seizures today. Here are some of the most important things to remember:
A seizure is an abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Not all seizures are the same, and the symptoms vary.
There can be many reasons. Some are temporary, while others are caused by underlying medical conditions.
If you have a seizure or lose consciousness for the first time, seek medical advice immediately.
If you have frequent seizures, talk to your doctor to develop a treatment and management plan. It is very important to use your medication correctly.
Identify `(Triggers)` and try to avoid them.
You are not alone. If you are feeling stressed about this situation, talk to your doctor or a mental health counselor about it.
I hope this information is useful to you. Stay healthy!
` Seizure, Migraine, Brain Diseases, Neurological Diseases, Seizure Symptoms, Seizure Treatment

⚠️ Important: The medical articles and information on Nirogi Lanka are for general awareness only, and are by no means a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any medical problem you have, consult a qualified physician immediately.

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General Health InformationFebruary 26, 2026
Have you ever had this happen to you? Let's learn exactly what a seizure is!
Dr. Priya SammaniMedical Verification
⏱ 18 min read
📋Table of Contents
1. What is a seizure? Let's understand it simply.
2. What are the types of seizures?
3. A little more information about the types of generalized seizures
4. Let's also learn about the types of focal seizures.
5. How common is this condition called a seizure?
6. What are the symptoms of a seizure?
7. Are there stages of a seizure?
8. What are the warning signs before a seizure?
9. Why do these seizures occur? What are the causes?
10. Seizure Triggers
11. Other medical conditions that cause seizures
12. Who is at higher risk of having a seizure?
13. What are the possible complications of a seizure?
14. Is there a connection between seizures and mental health?
15. How do you recognize this condition called a seizure?
16. What tests are done for this?
17. What are the treatments for seizures?
18. Seizure medications
19. Can a seizure be prevented?
20. What to expect if you have a seizure? What is the outlook?
21. How long can a seizure last?
22. What is the outlook for seizures?
23. When should you see a doctor?
24. What questions should I ask the doctor?
25. What types of seizures affect children?
26. Is it safe to get pregnant if I have seizures?
27. Final Take-Home Message
Today we are going to talk about a somewhat sensitive topic, and one that many people are not very familiar with. That is a seizure, or as it is called in English, a ``Seizure''. You may have heard of it, or perhaps you have seen it. However, it is very important to know about it. Because, if something like this happens to someone, it will help you not to cause unnecessary fear, as well as to help you.
What is a seizure? Let's understand it simply.
Simply put, a seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in our brain. Think of it like a complex computer system. It contains millions of nerve cells called neurons. These communicate with each other through small electrical signals. So, if for some reason there is a sudden disruption in this electrical signal system, or there is too much electrical activity, that is when a seizure occurs. When most people think of a seizure, they think of a severe condition where the body shakes and they lose consciousness. That is one symptom. However, not all seizures are the same. Sometimes a person may stop what they are doing and stare blankly for a while. Another person may have a twitching or twitching arm or leg, or their muscles may twitch. Some people may only have one seizure in their lifetime. Others may have several seizures a day. This means that if you have a seizure, it may be very different from what someone else has. There can be many reasons for this. Because there are many things that can disrupt the normal electrical patterns in the brain. It can be caused by anything from changes in blood sugar levels to an illness, accident, or underlying medical condition. That's why it's important to see a doctor to find out what treatment is right for you.
What are the types of seizures?
There are two main types of seizures. Let's take a look at what they are. 1. Generalized Seizures: This is when electrical activity starts on both sides of the brain at the same time. During this time, your body may twitch on both sides, just one side may twitch, or you may stop what you were doing and just stare. Although these usually occur more in young children or young adults, this condition can occur in anyone of any age. 2. Focal Seizures: This is when electrical activity starts on one side of the brain, or in one specific area (`(focus)`). Symptoms usually affect one side of the body, and you may or may not be conscious. This means that you may or may not remember the seizure. Focal seizures can sometimes be focal or spread to both sides of the brain.
A little more information about the types of generalized seizures
There are also different types of generalized seizures. Let's take a look at that as well:
Absence Seizures: In this, you suddenly stop what you were doing and stare blankly. You return to normal within a few seconds. An outside observer may not even notice this.
Atonic Seizures (Drop Seizures): In this, there is a sudden loss of muscle control, causing the person to fall to the ground. This is also called `(Drop Seizures)`.
Clonic Seizures: This can cause a jerking sensation on both sides of the body and loss of consciousness. Or it can cause a jerking sensation on one side of the body without loss of consciousness.
Myoclonic Seizures: These are sudden jerks of one or several muscles in the body, as if they were struck by an electric shock.
Secondary Generalized Seizures: In this, a focal seizure (meaning electrical activity starts in one part of the brain) first occurs, and then it becomes a generalized seizure (meaning electrical activity spreads to both sides of the brain).
Tonic-Clonic Seizures: This is the most severe type that most people think of when they hear the word " seizure ." Muscles stiffen (tonic), loss of consciousness, and then the body jerks (clonic).
Tonic Seizures: In this, there is loss of consciousness and muscle rigidity, but no convulsions occur.
Let's also learn about the types of focal seizures.
There are also two main types of focal seizures:
Focal Onset Aware Seizures (Simple Partial Seizure): In this, you are aware of the seizure and can remember it.
Focal Onset Impaired Awareness Seizures (Complex Partial Seizure): In this type of seizure, you lose consciousness and feel confused (`(confusion)`). You also have no memory of the seizure.
How common is this condition called a seizure?
Did you know that about 10% of people worldwide experience at least one seizure in their lifetime? That means it's not that uncommon.
What are the symptoms of a seizure?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the seizure. However, there are some common signs that can be seen:
Loss of consciousness.
Uncontrollable movements of body parts (e.g., convulsions, muscle spasms , jerking).
Staring blankly.
In addition to this, other features can be seen:
Sudden emotional changes (e.g., confusion, fear, happiness, anxiety ).
Toothpick .
Drooling.
Abnormal eye movements.
Loss of urinary or bowel control.
Making unusual sounds (e.g., snoring).
These symptoms are temporary, usually lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Are there stages of a seizure?
Yes, a seizure can have several stages. But not everyone experiences all of them. 1. Prodrome phase: A few days before a seizure, you may experience changes in your mood or behavior, feel dizzy, or have difficulty concentrating. Some people may also have trouble sleeping. 2. Aura phase: Just before the first symptoms of a seizure begin, you may experience changes in your vision (bright lights, distorted vision), a headache, dizziness, nausea, fear or anxiety, and changes in your senses (taste, smell, sound, touch). This is like a small warning sign before the seizure begins. 3. Ictal phase: This is when the seizure actually occurs. This is the stage where you experience the symptoms of a seizure. 4. Postictal phase: Immediately after the seizure ends, you may feel very tired, dizzy, have body aches, and experience intense emotions (such as sadness or happiness). During this stage, a person may become very sleepy.
The important thing is that not everyone experiences all of these stages. Especially the ``Aura'' stage. Often, seizures come on suddenly, and you may not feel any warning signs.
What are the warning signs before a seizure?
Some people may experience warning signs before a seizure occurs. These are similar to the ``aura'' phase.
Sensory symptoms: seeing bright lights, visual distortions, sudden sounds, unfamiliar tastes (metallic or bitter) or smells , strange skin sensations ( numbness or tingling).
Emotional changes: sudden fear or joy, deja vuThings like ``(jamais vu)`` (a new experience feels somehow familiar) or ``(jamais vu)`` (a familiar experience feels somehow new).
Autonomic symptoms: These affect the body systems that are automatically controlled by our brain. For example, sweating, drooling , an upset stomach, and pale skin.
But remember, not everyone experiences these warning signs before a seizure.
Why do these seizures occur? What are the causes?
As we have discussed before, a seizure is caused by a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. The nerve cells in our brain communicate with each other by sending electrical signals. When a seizure occurs, the affected brain cells start sending signals to other cells in the surrounding area without control. This excessive electrical activity overloads the relevant areas of the brain, which is what causes the symptoms of a seizure. The causes of seizures can be divided into two main categories, based on why they occur.
Provoked Seizures (Nonepileptic): These are caused by a trigger. That is, a temporary condition or certain circumstances can cause the seizure symptoms. These are not due to a disease called ``Epilepsy.''
Unprovoked Seizures (Epileptic): These seizures occur spontaneously, without any apparent cause. They can occur frequently. These types of seizures are the main symptom of the disease called `(Epilepsy).`
Seizures for which no exact cause can be found are also called idiopathic seizures .
Seizure Triggers
Certain things can increase the risk of having a seizure. We also call these ``Triggers''.
Abnormal blood sugar levels (low blood sugar or very high blood sugar).
Some medications, for example `(Wellbutrin®)` or `(bupropion)`.
Flashing or flickering lights.
Heat illness.
High fever.
Sleep deprivation.
Stress.
Drug use (including alcohol withdrawal).
These ``Triggers`` are not the same for everyone. If you have frequent seizures, it's a good idea to keep a record of what you were doing before a seizure. A doctor can look at that information and help you figure out what your ``Triggers`` are.
Other medical conditions that cause seizures
Many other medical conditions can cause seizures. Here are a few examples:
Brain aneurysms.
Brain tumors.
Lack of oxygen to the brain (Cerebral hypoxia).
Cerebrovascular disease.
Diabetes.
Severe head injuries, especially those resulting in loss of consciousness (Severe concussion and traumatic brain injury).
Diseases that gradually weaken the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia.
High blood pressure and seizures during pregnancy (Eclampsia).
Imbalances in body salts, especially low sodium (hyponatremia), low calcium or magnesium.
Epilepsy (recurrent seizures without a clear underlying cause).
Genetic conditions.
Other possible causes:
Hormone-related changes.
Infections, especially encephalitis, meningitis, or sepsis.
Inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions.
Mental health problems (also called ``psychogenic seizures''), e.g. ``conversion disorder''.
Problems with brain development (congenital brain abnormalities).
Strokes.
Toxic substances (such as carbon monoxide poisoning or heavy metal poisoning).
Snake bites or bites from other venomous animals.
Who is at higher risk of having a seizure?
Anyone can have a seizure at any age. However, you may be at a slightly higher risk if you:
If you have another underlying medical condition.
If someone in your family has had seizures (genetic influence).
If you are a child (under 18 years old).
If you are over 50 years old.
What are the possible complications of a seizure?
During a seizure, you may lose consciousness and fall. If you do, you may be injured by falling or by suddenly stopping what you were doing (such as driving a car, operating machinery, or climbing a height). During convulsions, your limbs may hit hard objects, causing cuts, bruises, or broken bones. Status epilepticus is a condition that occurs when a seizure lasts more than five minutes, or when another seizure occurs before you have fully recovered from one seizure. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. It can cause brain damage or even death.
Is there a connection between seizures and mental health?
Yes, seizures can have a big impact on your mental health. It is common to experience symptoms like anxiety and depression along with seizures. This is because seizures can disrupt your normal life. They can keep you away from things you enjoy. You may feel anxious and worried about having another seizure. You may lose sleep at night wondering when the next one will come. If you have a seizure in front of others, you may feel embarrassed and may not want to go out or spend time with friends. Since seizures are something that is out of your control, it is normal to have these feelings. A mental health professional can help you manage the impact that seizures are having on your emotional well-being.
How do you recognize this condition called a seizure?
A neurologist is usually the one who diagnoses a seizure. This involves a physical exam, a neurological exam, and several other tests. During these tests, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, your medical history, and your family's health history. It can be helpful to bring someone who witnessed the seizure with you to the doctor. Since you may not remember what happened, that person can explain what you saw.
What tests are done for this?
These tests can help determine whether you are having a seizure and, if so, what is causing it. An important part of diagnosing seizures is finding a specific place in the brain (`(focal point)`) where the seizure starts. Finding such a place can help your doctor plan treatment. Some of the tests used to diagnose seizures include:
Blood tests.
CT scan `(Computed tomography (CT) scan)`.
EEG test (Electroencephalogram (EEG)). This measures the electrical activity of the brain.
Genetic tests.
MRI scan `(Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI))`.
PET scan `(Positron emission tomography (PET) scan)`.
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) test.
If there is a suspicion that the seizure has caused an injury or other complication, doctors may recommend further tests. The doctor will tell you (or someone who makes medical decisions for you) which tests are recommended and why they are being done.
What are the treatments for seizures?
Treatment options vary depending on the type, severity, and cause of the seizure. Your doctor may recommend things like:
Managing underlying causes or medical conditions: The doctor will first try to treat any underlying medical conditions that are causing the seizures (e.g., stroke, low blood sugar). This can help prevent future seizures.
Taking antiseizure medications:These medications help prevent seizures or reduce the frequency of them.
Surgery: By treating the area of the brain (``focal point``) where seizures begin, surgery can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Brain stimulation: A surgeon inserts a device into the brain and delivers a mild electrical current through it. This current disrupts the brain's abnormal electrical activity and attempts to stop it. There are various methods for this, for example, `(vagus nerve stimulation)`.
If some treatments don't work, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet. Some studies have shown that a low-carb or no-carb diet (`(ketogenic diet)`) can reduce the frequency of seizures. However, research is still ongoing on this.
Seizure medications
Medications can help manage seizures in the following ways:
Stop a seizure as soon as it occurs.
Prevent future seizures.
Reduce the severity of seizures.
Reduce the frequency of seizures.
Some of the most commonly used medications for seizures are:
`Benzodiazepine`
`Carbamazepine`
`Diazepam`
`Gabapentin`
`Lamotrigine`
`Oxcarbazepine`
`Phenytoin`
`Pregabalin`
`Valproic acid`
After you start a new medication, your doctor will often see you for follow-up appointments to see how well it is working. It can take several months to find the right medication and dosage for you. Always take your medication exactly as your doctor tells you. Don't stop taking it even if you feel better. Studies have shown that about 33% of people who take antiseizure medications completely stop having seizures. Another 33% say that their seizures are less frequent after taking these medications.
Can a seizure be prevented?
Because seizures are unpredictable, they cannot be completely prevented. The best thing you can do is to avoid things that can cause seizures, or ``Triggers.'' For example, controlling your blood sugar levels, and protecting yourself from illness and injury.
What to expect if you have a seizure? What is the outlook?
Less than half of people who have had an unprovoked seizure will have another seizure. If a second seizure occurs, doctors may recommend starting antiseizure medications. In the case of a provoked seizure, the risk of having another seizure depends on what caused the first seizure. If the cause can be treated, the risk of having another seizure is low (unless the condition that caused the first seizure recurs). Medications can help prevent seizures or reduce the frequency of seizures. However, sometimes it is necessary to try several medications (or a combination of medications) to find the one that works best. In some cases, it may be difficult to control seizures with medication alone. In that case, a doctor may recommend surgery, a special diet, or other treatments. If you have frequent seizures, your doctor can help you stay safe. You can wear or carry a medical ID bracelet or card so that others know what to do if you have a seizure.
How long can a seizure last?
Seizure symptoms usually last from a few seconds to a few minutes, with a maximum duration of 15 minutes. If multiple seizures occur in a row (this is a medical emergency), symptoms may last longer.
What is the outlook for seizures?
Because everyone's seizure experience is different, the outlook can vary greatly. Your outlook may depend on several factors, including:
Have you found a reason?
Can that cause be managed or treated?
What kind of seizure did you have?
How severe was the seizure and how long did it last?
Is this your first seizure?
Do you have an underlying medical condition for which seizures are a common symptom?
What treatments are available to help manage this type of seizure?
Your doctor has the most up-to-date information about what you can expect. If you have any questions, ask them.
When should you see a doctor?
If you have a seizure for the first time in your life, or if you lose consciousness and do not know the cause, you should definitely go to the emergency room. If you are alone and think you are having a seizure for the first time, you should see or talk to a doctor immediately. If you have had a seizure before, it is important to be vigilant for another one. If you have a second seizure, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible.Seizures cause changes in your brain, making you more likely to have more seizures. Therefore, it is best to get diagnosed and treated early. For someone who has frequent seizures, it may not be necessary to call an ambulance after a seizure. However, even if you know why you had the seizure, you may have sustained injuries that require medical attention.
What questions should I ask the doctor?
If you have a seizure, you can ask your doctor questions like these:
Why did I have this seizure?
How do I avoid `(Triggers)`?
What kind of treatment do you recommend?
Are there any side effects to that treatment?
Will I have another seizure?
How can I protect myself?
What types of seizures affect children?
Children can also develop seizures. The same causes of seizures in adults often affect children. Some of the most common types of seizures and seizure disorders seen in childhood are:
Absence seizures (childhood absence epilepsy).
Epilepsy in children.
Febrile seizures (seizures that occur when the fever increases).
Infantile spasms.
Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.
Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Tonic-clonic seizures.
Is it safe to get pregnant if I have seizures?
Yes, you can have a safe pregnancy if you have seizures. However, your doctor may recommend regular checkups to monitor your health and that of your baby. Some antiseizure medications are not safe during pregnancy. Therefore, your doctor will recommend safer alternative medications to help control your symptoms. If you have any questions or concerns, your doctor is the best person to talk to. Seizures may seem like the dramatic events you see on TV or in the movies, but they can be something you or a loved one experience every day or often. They are unpleasant to experience and even more frightening to watch. You may feel out of sorts before, during, and after a seizure, and it can take time to recover. Even if your seizures are out of your control, a doctor can help you manage your symptoms. Your doctor will teach you ways to manage your underlying condition, or identify and avoid triggers. Medications can help reduce the frequency of seizures, and surgery may be an option if other treatments are not effective.
If you have any questions about what to expect if you have a seizure, or how to protect yourself or a loved one, don't hesitate to see a doctor.
Final Take-Home Message
Okay, so we've talked a lot about seizures today. Here are some of the most important things to remember:
A seizure is an abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Not all seizures are the same, and the symptoms vary.
There can be many reasons. Some are temporary, while others are caused by underlying medical conditions.
If you have a seizure or lose consciousness for the first time, seek medical advice immediately.
If you have frequent seizures, talk to your doctor to develop a treatment and management plan. It is very important to use your medication correctly.
Identify `(Triggers)` and try to avoid them.
You are not alone. If you are feeling stressed about this situation, talk to your doctor or a mental health counselor about it.
I hope this information is useful to you. Stay healthy!
` Seizure, Migraine, Brain Diseases, Neurological Diseases, Seizure Symptoms, Seizure Treatment
⚠️ Important: The medical articles and information on Nirogi Lanka are for general awareness only, and are by no means a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any medical problem you have, consult a qualified physician immediately.
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