Convulsions

Alternative names

Seizures

Definition

A seizure is a sudden change in behavior due to an excessive electrical activity in the brain.

Considerations

There are a wide variety of possible symptoms of seizures, depending on what parts of the brain are affected. Many types of seizures cause loss of consciousness with twitching or shaking of the body. However, some seizures consist of staring spells that can easily go unnoticed. Occasionally, seizures can cause temporary abnormal sensations or visual disturbances.

Seizures can generally be classified as either "simple" (no change in level of consciousness) or "complex" (change in level of consciousness). Seizures may also be classified as generalized (whole body affected) or focal (only one part or side of the body is affected).

Epilepsy is a chronic disorder with recurrent seizures. Some types of epilepsy are hereditary.

See also:

• Epilepsy
  
• Petit mal seizure
  
• Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (grand mal)
  
• Partial (focal) seizure
  
• Temporal lobe seizure
  
• Fever convulsions (seizures in children with high fever)
  

Common Causes

Any condition that results in abnormal electrical excitation of the brain may result in a seizure, including:

• Epilepsy
  
• Injury or trauma to the head
  
• Infection (brain abscess, meningitis)
  
• Brain tumor
  
• Stroke
  

Also, any medical condition that irritates brain cells may result in a seizure. Common medical conditions that commonly cause seizures include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  
• Drug use (especially cocaine or stimulants)
  
• Alcohol withdrawal
  
• Very high fever (fever convulsions in children)
  

Home Care

People with epilepsy should always wear a medical alert tag.

Most seizures are self-limiting and stop by themselves after various periods of time. However, a person having a seizure may be injured; breathe food, fluid, or vomit into the lungs; or not get enough oxygen. During a seizure, it is important to protect the person from injury. Turn the person on his or her side, so that any vomit is expelled. See seizure first aid.