WHAT IS IT
Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in movement, behavior, awareness, or consciousness. Some seizures are brief and mild, while others can be severe and require emergency care.
CAUSES
• Epilepsy (recurrent seizure disorder)
• High fever (febrile seizures in children)
• Head injury or trauma
• Brain infections (meningitis, encephalitis)
• Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia)
• Stroke or brain tumor
• Alcohol or drug withdrawal
SYMPTOMS
• Sudden jerking movements of arms and legs
• Loss of consciousness
• Staring spells or unresponsiveness
• Confusion after the episode
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Breathing difficulty during severe seizures
• Temporary memory loss
RISK FACTORS
• History of epilepsy or previous seizures
• Brain injury or stroke
• Family history of seizures
• Severe infections affecting the brain
• Uncontrolled diabetes (low sugar episodes)
DIAGNOSIS
• Medical history and physical examination
• EEG (Electroencephalogram) – to record brain activity
• CT Scan or MRI – to detect brain abnormalities
• Blood tests – to check sugar, electrolytes, or infections
TREATMENT
• Immediate safety care during seizure (prevent injury)
• Anti-seizure medications (prescribed by a doctor)
• Treat the underlying cause
• Hospital care in prolonged or repeated seizures
• Long-term management for epilepsy if diagnosed
PREVENTION
• Take prescribed medications regularly
• Avoid triggers (lack of sleep, stress, alcohol)
• Maintain stable blood sugar levels
• Regular medical follow-up
• Wear medical alert identification if diagnosed with epilepsy
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
• Immediately (Emergency) if seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
• Repeated seizures without recovery in between
• First-time seizure
• Injury during seizure
• Difficulty breathing after seizure
• Seizure in pregnant women or children with high fever
IMPORTANT NOTE
This information is for educational purposes only. For proper diagnosis and treatment, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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