Seizures, also known as fits, are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. These disturbances can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Seizures can vary in severity and duration, ranging from brief lapses of attention to severe convulsions.
There are different types of seizures, broadly categorized into two groups:
1. Focal (or partial) seizures: These start in a specific part of the brain and may affect awareness or consciousness.
2. Generalized seizures: These involve both sides of the brain from the onset and include various types such as absence seizures (brief lapses in consciousness) and tonic-clonic seizures (characterized by muscle stiffness and convulsions).
Seizures can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Epilepsy
High fever (febrile seizures)
Head injury
Brain infections (e.g., meningitis)
Stroke
Brain tumor
Genetic conditions
Metabolic imbalances
How seizures occur
During a convulsion, a person experiences sudden, uncontrollable muscle contractions and relaxations. These movements can be generalized or focal, depending on the type of seizure. Here’s a detailed description of the motion:
1. Generalized Convulsions (e.g., tonic-clonic seizures):
Tonic phase: The person’s muscles suddenly stiffen. This might cause them to cry out, groan, or fall to the ground if standing. The body may arch or straighten out.
Clonic phase: Rapid and rhythmic jerking of the muscles begins. This includes repeated, uncontrolled muscle contractions and relaxations in the arms, legs, and face. The jerking is often symmetrical and can be quite vigorous.
2. Focal Convulsions (e.g., focal motor seizures):
The muscle contractions may be localized to one part of the body, such as one limb or one side of the face.
These can manifest as repetitive movements, such as twitching, jerking, or abnormal posturing of the affected area.
During a convulsion, the individual may lose consciousness or awareness, be unable to respond, and may also experience additional symptoms such as drooling, frothing at the mouth, eye rolling, or biting their tongue. The convulsion typically lasts a few seconds to a couple of minutes, after which the person may experience a period of confusion, tiredness, or weakness.
First Aid
If someone is having a seizure, it's important to provide first aid and ensure their safety. Here are the steps you can take:
1. Stay Calm: Keep yourself composed to effectively assist the person.
2. Time the Seizure: Note the start time of the seizure to monitor its duration. If it lasts more than 5 minutes, call emergency services.
3. Protect from Injury:
Move objects away that could cause injury (furniture, sharp items).
Cushion their head with something soft, like a jacket or pillow.
Loosen any tight clothing around the neck.
4. Turn Them on Their Side: If possible, gently turn the person onto their side to help keep their airway clear and prevent choking.
5. Do Not Restrain: Avoid holding the person down or trying to stop their movements. This can cause injury to both you and them.
6. Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth: Do not place any objects, including fingers, in their mouth. This can cause choking or dental injury.
7. Stay with Them: Remain with the person throughout the seizure and reassure them as they regain consciousness. They may be confused or disoriented afterward.
8. Offer Help Afterwards:
Once the seizure ends, offer to stay with them until they are fully alert.
Provide a safe, quiet space for them to rest.
Consider providing the patient with glucose if seizure occurs during fasting period
9. Seek Medical Help if:
The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
Another seizure starts immediately after the first.
The person has difficulty breathing or waking up.
The seizure occurs in water.
The person is injured during the seizure.
They have never had a seizure before.
It's also helpful to inform medical personnel about any known conditions, medications, or seizure patterns if you have that information.
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