Seizures are caused by an abnormal electrical charge in the brain. Depending on where in the brain that the seizure begins, it can take many different forms. A seizure is classified as a temporary change in a person’s movements, consciousness and sensations.
1. Causes
Many things can cause seizures; some include a sudden drop in the blood sugar levels, chemical imbalance in the brain, severe brain injury and stroke, or drug and alcohol abuse. Epilepsy is the most common condition or disorder that most people think of when they hear seizures. When a reason for the seizures cannot be determined, they are considered to be idiopathic. This leads to frustration for the affected person and also their family.
2. Classifications
Scientists give seizures two different classifications. One is Generalized Seizures; this means that the seizure involves the whole brain, not just a section of it. When these happen, the person may have a blank look in their eyes, like they are not there. In Grand mal seizures, the person may actually pass out or lose consciousness. When they lose consciousness, the body seems to stiffen, and then shake violently. In Focal or Partial Seizures, just a portion of the brain is involved, such as the movement to fingers, hands or legs. The seizure could also affect the whole side of the body. A partial seizure may also affect the senses, such as in smell. The person may have an odd or strange odor they smell, or a strange taste.
3. Occurance
Most seizures will end on their own within a few minutes. In times gone by, it was believed that an object had to be placed in the mouth so that the seizing person would not swallow their tongue. We know now that a person cannot swallow their own tongue. The after effects of a seizure are generally a loud sigh, and the person will generally fall asleep. This is known as the recovery time.
4. Prevention
There is no special diet required for people who experience seizures. No special first aid will need to be performed, unless the seizures continue or the person has multiple seizures in a row. Then an ambulance should be called and the person transported to the hospital immediately. Seizures can be triggered by many causes, such as a lack of sleep, injury to the head or brain, stress, too much excitement or alcohol and drug use. The prevention methods for seizures include a healthy lifestyle, proper medication when prescribed, helmets for bicycling or other sports and seat belt use when in vehicles to prevent injuries to the head in case of accidents.
A person that suffers from seizures can live a normal life, eat the same food as their family, participate in the same activities, work and drive; females can also get pregnant and have a normal pregnancy and baby.