A seizure is an abrupt, brief, uncontrolled electrical discharge from the brain. This uncontrolled electrical discharge can produce a temporary loss of consciousness, unusual behavior, physical contractions, and muscle spasms.
The electrical surge during a seizure can also cause damage to the central nervous system (CNS) that surrounds the brain, or to other parts of the body. Some people call this uncontrolled electrical discharge from the brain an "episodic epileptic attack." During the attacks, there is no pain, but many sufferers report feelings of extreme discomfort and numbness.
Epilepsy is a condition where seizures occur unexpectedly
There are two types of epilepsy, primary epilepsy and secondary epilepsy. A primary type occurs when a person has one type of epilepsy. Secondary epilepsy occurs when a person has more than one type of epilepsy.
One of the main symptoms of epilepsy is severe muscle spasms, including twitching or jerking movements that happen repeatedly for hours. These muscle spasms occur for several reasons. If you notice that you have a lot of pain, sudden choking sensations, or dizziness, these could be a sign of epilepsy.
Pain during a seizure can last up to 30 minutes. During this time, you can't breathe and your heart is pumping blood into your brain. If a seizure lasts longer than thirty minutes, then you are experiencing a generalized seizure, which usually affects all of the body's muscles.
Generalized seizures are usually treated by taking medication to help control the pain and muscle spasms associated with them. If they continue for several days, then you should see a doctor who can check for any structural damage to the body. You may need surgery if your brain damage is extensive, such as in a severe head injury. In some cases, the damage may be too severe for surgery to fix, and you may need to use a device on your head to help prevent further seizures.
Some physical changes may appear in your body during a seizure. For example, your body can feel tired, nauseous, or shaky. You may also experience muscle cramps or weakness.
These symptoms are not always life threatening but can be enough to trigger a concern. If you suspect you have seizures, see your doctor right away.
If you have never had a seizure before, you may be wondering how to tell if you have them. Seizures are not dangerous, but they can be very upsetting. If you notice sudden pain or weakness or if you are unable to control your breathing, you may have a seizure. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
Your doctor may take a variety of tests to determine if you have epilepsy. He or she may order a special test called the Glasgow Coma Scale, which is designed to look at your mental status as well as your physical activity level and try to find any structural problems in your brain.
Seizure symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Your doctor may check your urine for certain types or check for any type of alcohol abuse or dependence.
Certain medications may also be given to try to reduce seizures
The most common type of medication used is benzodiazepines, which help to relax you.
If your doctor decides that epilepsy is the cause of your seizures, he or she may prescribe medication to control the condition. Medications used to treat epilepsy include seizure medications, which you can get either over the counter or through prescription, and non-convulsant medications.
While some medications can produce some positive side effects, others can have some bad side effects. Be sure to check with your doctor to see if the medication will cause side effects that may cause complications.
If you decide to go on medication, be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow all of the directions. You may want to talk to your doctor about other methods of treatment before starting any form of treatment.
The best way to get medical help for your seizures is to seek it from a doctor who specializes in the area of epilepsy. Doctors are trained to help you and are very experienced.