Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain, resulting in a wide range of symptoms, including loss of consciousness, convulsions, and muscle rigidity. Seizures can happen to anyone at any age; some people may experience seizures as a one-time occurrence, while others may have recurring seizures, known as epilepsy. Understanding the causes of seizures Dallas is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
It is important to note that while seizures can be a frightening experience, with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can manage your symptoms and lead a normal, healthy life.
Seizures evaluation
If you experience seizures or suspect you may have a seizure disorder, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional. This is because a doctor will need to evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and possibly order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your seizures.
During the evaluation, the doctor may ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and any medications or supplements you take. The doctor may also conduct a neurological examination to assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and coordination.
In some cases, your doctor may order diagnostic tests such as an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain, or imaging tests such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan to look for any abnormalities in your brain.
Causes of seizures
There are many causes of seizures, ranging from genetic factors to underlying medical conditions. Here are some of the most common causes of seizures:
- Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures. It is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can be genetic or acquired.
- Head injuries, such as concussions or skull fractures, can cause seizures. The impact can disrupt normal brain activity and lead to abnormal electrical discharges.
- Infections: Infections of the brain or surrounding tissues, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can cause seizures. The inflammation and swelling can irritate the brain and disrupt normal electrical activity.
- Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, which can lead to brain damage and seizures. The risk of seizures is highest in the first few days after a stroke.
- Brain tumors can cause seizures by pressing on or disrupting normal brain tissue. Seizures are often one of the first symptoms of a brain tumor.
- Genetic factors: Some people may be genetically predisposed to seizures, and certain genetic disorders, such as Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, can cause recurrent seizures.
There are several treatment options available for seizures, including:
- Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for seizures. The drugs reduce the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. There are many types of AEDs, and the choice of medication depends on the type of seizure and the patient’s needs.
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): This non-invasive treatment involves implanting a device under the skin on the chest that sends electrical impulses to the brain via the vagus nerve.
- Surgery: Surgery may be an option for people with seizures that are not controlled with medication. The most common type of epilepsy surgery is a temporal lobectomy, which involves removing the part of the brain responsible for the seizures.
Visit RHBNeuro so your healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of seizures and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
