Diseases
seizures
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. It can cause changes in your behavior, movements or feelings, and in levels of consciousness. Having two or more seizures at least 24 hours apart that aren't brought on by an identifiable cause is generally considered to be epilepsy.
Symptoms
- temporary confusion
- a staring spell
- uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- loss of consciousness or awareness
- cognitive or emotional symptoms, such as fear, anxiety or deja vu
Causes
- high fever, which can be associated with an infection such as meningitis
- flashing lights, moving patterns or other visual stimulants
- lack of sleep
Risk factors
- low blood sodium (hyponatremia), which can happen with diuretic therapy
- abnormalities of the blood vessels in the brain
- brain tumor
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- a neurological exam.
- lumbar puncture.
- an electroencephalogram (eeg).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is seizures?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. It can cause changes in your behavior, movements or feelings, and in levels of consciousness. Having two or more seizures at least 24 hours apart that aren't brought on by an identifiable cause is generally considered to be epilepsy.
What are the symptoms of seizures?
temporary confusion, a staring spell, uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs, loss of consciousness or awareness, cognitive or emotional symptoms, such as fear, anxiety or deja vu
What causes seizures?
high fever, which can be associated with an infection such as meningitis; flashing lights, moving patterns or other visual stimulants; lack of sleep
Which medicines are used for seizures?
acetazolamide, brivaracetam, eslicarbazepine, ethosuximide, everolimus, ezogabine, gabapentin, lacosamide, levetiracetam, perampanel, phenobarbitone, phenytoin, pregabalin, topiramate, valproic acid, vigabatrin, zonisamide
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