Seizures

What is a seizure? A seizure is a sudden discharge of neurons causing a temporary change in brain activity(I associate it to a TV in an electrical storm-when there is static and the picture goes fuzzy).

What is the difference between seizures and epilepsy? Epilepsy is a condition where someone has two or more seizures that are not provoked by chemicals, head injury, brain tumor, high fever or other trauma.

Types of Seizures:

1. Focal Seizures: caused by abnormal activity in one area of the brain.

A. Simple Partial
Occurs on one side of the body and person remains aware. This type can spread to the
rest of the body and cause impairment of the senses. It is then called Partial Onset
with Secondary Generalization.

B. Complex Partial
This type of seizures causes impaired awareness and or staring. The person does not
react to external stimuli. There are often involuntary motions such as smacking of the
lips, blinking, and finger movements. This may be followed by a period disorientation
and confusion.

2. Generalized: caused by abnormal activity in the entire brain

A. Generalized motor or Grand Mal
This type of seizure involves involuntary tonic, clonic, and, or myoclonic muscle
spasms of the entire body. Bladder and bowel incontinence may occur. Most seizures
last only 1-2 minutes. Breathing may stop for a few seconds. After the seizure the
person is usually lethargic and disoriented (this may last for an entire day or two).
Allow them to sleep. If the seizure lasts for more than 5 min. call for EMS.

B. Absence or Petit Mal
During this type of seizure the person is unaware and may stare out into space. It is
usually very brief with little to no post seizure. There may be involuntary movements
such as smacking of the lips, blinking, or finger movements.

What do you do for someone having a seizure?

1.Stay calm

2.Protect the person from injury:

If they start to fall, ease to floor
Move sharp or hard objects away
Do not restrain
Do not put anything in their mouth
Keep them on their side in case they vomit or drool
If the seizure lasts for more than 5 mins. Call EMS