Seizures are violent, involuntary muscle contractions that can affect one or more limbs, or even the entire body. They can also affect the face, manifesting as disordered and involuntary movements. These seizures can be caused by:
- diseases,
- poisonings,
- metabolic disorders,
- brain trauma,
- viral diseases,
- electrocutions,
- etc.
Seizures can sometimes lead to coma or death.
Definition and Meaning
Seizures are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can affect the whole body or part of it. They are often associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can be caused by many medical conditions, such as epilepsy, fever, dehydration, low blood sugar or brain injury. Seizures may manifest as muscle spasms, sudden uncontrollable movements, loss of consciousness, tongue biting, and urinary or fecal incontinence. Seizures often require emergency medical attention to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
The causes
Convulsions are caused by damage to the nerve centers of the brain or spinal cord. The main causes include:
- epilepsy,
- intoxications;
- Mercury,
- silver,
- lead poisoning,
- severe hypoglycemia (lack of sugar),
- severe hypokalemia (lack of potassium),
- cerebral trauma,
- viral diseases,
- electrocution,
- etc.
It is important to note that one study showed that the risk of seizures is increased if the mother drank alcohol during pregnancy.
The consequences
The consequences of seizures depend on the underlying cause and the frequency of the seizures. Some people may recover completely after a single seizure, while others may suffer permanent brain damage or motor impairment. Repeated seizures can also lead to learning, memory, vision and coordination problems. It is therefore important to seek medical attention for repeated or suspected seizures.
Treatment
The treatment of seizures depends on the underlying cause and the frequency of the seizures. Anti-epileptic drugs are often used to treat seizures related to epilepsy. For poisoning, it is important to get rid of the toxic substance and treat the symptoms. Metabolic disorders such as severe hypoglycemia or hypokalemia require rehydration and electrolyte rebalancing therapy. Traumatic brain injury and viral diseases require specific treatment depending on the underlying cause. It is important to consult a physician or specialist in case of repeated or suspected seizures for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
In brief
Seizures are violent, involuntary muscle contractions that can affect one or more limbs, or even the entire body. They are caused by damage to nerve centers in the brain or spinal cord and may be related to illness. It is important to seek medical attention for repeated or suspected seizures for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the consequences of seizures depend on the underlying cause and frequency of the seizures, and some people may experience permanent brain damage or motor impairment.