Epileptic seizures
Epileptic Seizures
Epileptic seizures (pronunciation: /ˌepəˈleptik ˈsēzjər/) are a type of neurological disorder characterized by sudden, recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Etymology
The term "epileptic" is derived from the Greek word "epilēpsia" which means "to seize, possess, or afflict". The term "seizure" comes from the Old French "saisir", meaning "to take hold of" or "to attack".
Types of Epileptic Seizures
Epileptic seizures can be categorized into two main types: Generalized seizures and Focal seizures.
- Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain or groups of cells on both sides of the brain at the same time. This category includes several subtypes such as Tonic-clonic seizures, Absence seizures, and Myoclonic seizures.
- Focal seizures or partial seizures, occur when seizure activity is limited to a part of one brain hemisphere. There are two types of focal seizures: Focal aware seizures (previously known as simple partial seizures) and Focal impaired awareness seizures (previously known as complex partial seizures).
Causes
Epileptic seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges from brain cells. The exact cause of this abnormality may not be known, but some common causes include brain injury, brain tumor, genetic conditions, infections, and metabolic disorders.
Treatment
Treatment for epileptic seizures typically involves the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). In some cases, surgery, dietary therapy (such as the ketogenic diet), or vagus nerve stimulation may be recommended.
Related Terms
- Epilepsy: A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
- Status epilepticus: A dangerous condition in which epileptic seizures follow one another without recovery of consciousness between them.
- Postictal state: The altered state of consciousness after an epileptic seizure.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epileptic seizures
- Wikipedia's article - Epileptic seizures
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