Seizures

A seizure is the physical findings or changes in behavior that occur after an episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

The term “seizure” is often used interchangeably with “convulsion.” During convulsions a person has uncontrollable shaking that is rapid and rhythmic, with the muscles contract and relax repeatedly. There are many different types of seizures. Some have mild symptoms without shaking.

Considerations
It may be hard to tell if someone is having a seizure. Some seizures only cause a person to have staring spells. These may go unnoticed. Specific symptoms depend on which part of the brain is involved. Symptoms occur suddenly and may include:

  • Brief blackout followed by a period of confusion (the person cannot remember for a short time)
  • Changes in behavior, such as picking at one’s clothing
  • Drooling or frothing at the mouth
  • Eye movements
  • Grunting and snorting
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Mood changes, such as sudden anger, unexplainable fear, panic, joy, or laughter
  • Shaking of the entire body
  • Sudden falling
  • Tasting a bitter or metallic flavor
  • Teeth clenching
  • Temporary stop in breathing
  • Uncontrollable muscle spasms with twitching and jerking limbs
    • Symptoms may stop after a few seconds or minutes, or continue for up to 15 minutes. They rarely continue longer.
    The person may have warning symptoms before the attack, such as:
    • Fear or anxiety
    • Nausea
    • Vertigo (feeling as if you are spinning or moving)
    • Visual symptoms (such as flashing bright lights, spots, or wavy lines before the eyes)