10 things to know about seizures: Causes, classification and management
Seizures are sudden abnormal neuronal discharges, and recurrent episodes indicate epilepsy. They are classified by consciousness and spread. Causes vary by age, including hypoxia, infections, febrile illness, and alcohol withdrawal.
Paroxysmal neuronal discharges explained A seizure is a paroxysmal event that occurs because of abnormal and excessive discharges from the neurons of the central nervous system. When such seizures become recurrent due to some long-standing, underlying process, it is known as epilepsy. A person with correctable or avoidable seizures may not necessarily have epilepsy.(Image: Canva)
Classification by consciousness and spread Seizures are often classified as simple or complex depending upon the consciousness. If there is no alteration in consciousness, it is known as a simplex seizure, and if there is a history of loss of consciousness during the event, it is known as a complex seizure. They may also be either focal or generalised.(Image: Canva)
Focal seizures and their features Focal seizures may cause motor or sensory symptoms, along with psychic ones, without any obvious change in the level of consciousness. In some cases, the affected individual may be unable to respond to visual or vocal stimuli during the seizure, and may not remember or recollect the event.(Image: Canva)
Behavioral changes before seizure onset Before the onset of a seizure, the person may have a behavioral arrest, and may stare into the distance, motionless. Post this, the person may have amnesia of the seizure. There may be some elaborate movements of the hand when the seizure occurs.(Image: Canva)
Age-specific causes in neonates Depending on the age, there can be multiple causes for seizures. In neonates, the common reasons for seizures include hypoxia during pregnancy and trauma. Infections of the central nervous system in a newborn, less than one month of age, may also lead seizures.(Image: Canva)
Infants, children and young adults Infections infants and children, febrile seizures are more common, though they may occur because of CNS infections or genetic disorders as well. In young adults, between the age of eighteen to thirty-five, alcohol withdrawal may be the underlying cause for the presentation of seizures.(Image: Canva)
Precipitating factors that trigger seizures There may be some precipitating factors, that may trigger seizures. These include sleep deprivation, systemic diseases and abnormal changes in the levels of electrolytes. Reduced blood glucose levels, changes in the calcium levels and hyponatremia may also lead to seizures.(Image: Canva)
Investigations to identify underlying causes A number of investigations may be advised, including serum glucose levels, serum calcium, electrolytes and renal function test. A liver function test may also be recommended, along with lumbar puncture. An electroencephalogram (a test that records the electrical activity of the brain) may aid in diagnosis.(Image: Canva)
Antiepileptic drugs and control Antiepileptic drugs may be started in any person who has recurrent seizures. Once the seizures have been under control for a few years, the healthcare professional may reduce the dosage, or even discontinue therapy. A ketogenic diet may aid in reducing the recurrence.(Image: Canva)
Ketogenic diet and medical guidance A ketogenic diet includes a high-fat and low-carbohydrate diet, which provides adequate levels of protein. Foods that may be included in such a diet include meats like red meat, chicken, salmon, unprocessed cheese and nuts like almonds and walnuts. It is necessary to consult your healthcare provider in case the symptoms worsen.(Image: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
