When the brain sends normal signals through the nerves to the muscles, body movements are regulated and controlled.   When the signals from the brain change abnormally,  a seizure may occur.  Seizures may also be referred to as convulsions.

Between individuals, seizures vary markedly.  Some people may pass out and/or have violent shaking throughout the body.  Others may only appear to lose touch with their surroundings and stare vacantly into space for a moment or more.  Still others may have a slight shaking of the head, or random movements.  During a seizure, an individual will not respond to others in what would be considered a normal manner.  After a seizure is over, there may be no memory of the event.

Seizures will generally last under three minutes.

It is quite possible for people in good health to suffer a single seizure.  These might occur after a head injury, in relation to high fever, drug or alcohol withdrawal, or a stroke.  They may also be caused by unnaturally low blood sugar.  The most common cause of seizures is a condition of the nervous system called epilepsy.   Epilepsy can be caused by strokes, birth injuries, tumor or a head injury.  Often the cause of the condition is unknown.

Seizures can be a frightening occurrence, both for the sufferer and for the observer.  Fortunately, virtually all seizures can be successfully controlled with medication, and the individual can lead a totally normal, healthy, happy, life.  It is however vital that patients take their medication regularly as prescribed and see their physician when required.  In some patients seizures may continue in spite of medication.  There are a few measures these individuals, and anyone being treated for seizures, can take to help prevent problems.  These include:

1.  Avoid situations that may trigger a seizure such as areas with flashing or flickering lights.  These such lights are common in night clubs, video games, and even on some television programs.

2.  It is important for those with uncontrolled seizures to avoid activities that may be dangerous to themselves and others such as working at heights that involve climbing, operating heavy machinery, and even driving.  In some areas, driving is only allowed after a full seizure-free year.

3.  Take your medication on a regular basis.  Never stop taking the medication for any reason.  Never increase or decrease you dosage unless told to do so by your physician.  Such actions are quite likely to result in an unnecessary seizure.

If you witness a seizure, YOU SHOULD make sure the person cannot be injured by falling or bumping into things.  Try to cushion their head.  Remain calm and reassuring.  Stay with the person until the seizure is over,  and, if possible, estimate how long the seizure lasted.

You SHOULD NOT try to move a person having a seizure unless they are in danger.  You should not try to restrain a person having a seizure or put any object in their mouth.  You must not try to give them anything to drink or eat.

After you are sure that the seizure is over, make sure the person has not been injured, place them in a comfortable position on their side and loosen any tight clothing.  Allow them to rest and, if you are not familiar with the patient’s seizure history, call for medical assistance.

CAUTIONARY MEASURES

1.  Always call for medical assistance if this is the person’s first seizure, if a seizure lasts more than three minutes, if a person is elderly or you suspect a stroke, if a head injury is involved, or if the victim has trouble breathing, is pregnant or is a diabetic.

Always make sure the victim of the seizure is safe and then, if you have any concerns at all, seek medical help immediately.

The following video is well worth watching as it reiterates the above information, and explains the different types of seizures as well as debunking some myths surrounding them.  It is especially suitable for young people.