Seizures are episodes that occur when there is a sudden, brief change in electrical activity in the brain. When people experience seizures, their consciousness, movement, or actions may be altered for a short time. Seizures affect people of all races and nationalities.
There a can be number of reasons why someone has a seizure. Some people can experience a seizure and not have
epilepsy. For example, many young children have convulsions from fevers
(see Febrile Seizures). These febrile convulsions are one type of seizure.
Other
types of seizures include those caused by an imbalance of body fluids or chemicals, such as low blood sugar in diabetics or by alcohol or drug withdrawal.
- Severe head injury
- An infection of the brain
- Eclampsia
- Tumor
- Stroke
- Certain other medical conditions.
Although there are many types of seizures, each with its own symptoms, it is wise to consult a doctor if you or a member of your family experiences one or more of these possible seizure symptoms:
- "Blackouts" or periods of confused memory
- Episodes of staring or unexplained periods of unresponsiveness
- Involuntary movement of arms and legs
- "Fainting spells" with incontinence or followed by excessive fatigue
- Odd sounds, distorted perceptions, or episodic feelings of fear that cannot be explained.
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