Signs & symptomsSeizures are divided into two categories: generalized and focal. Show Generalized SeizuresGeneralized seizures are caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the brain and typically occur with no warning. There are six types of generalized seizures.
Focal SeizuresFocal seizures, also known as local or partial seizures, are caused by abnormal electrical activity in a specific, smaller part of the brain. The part of the brain causing the seizure is called the seizure focus. Focal seizures are divided into simple and complex seizures. Some focal seizures evolve into generalized seizures. These are called secondarily generalized seizures.
DiagnosisDuring your visit to the Epilepsy Center, we will record your medical history — as well as your family's medical history — and conduct diagnostic tests. Your neurologist will determine the type of seizures you're having and the cause. If you're diagnosed with epilepsy, your doctor will identify the specific type you have to determine the best treatment. We will ask many questions about your seizures. If you lose consciousness during your seizures, please bring a family member or friend who might help describe what happens during your seizures. Some of the questions will include:
If your primary care doctor has sent your medical records, we will review this information. Please tell your neurologist about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter medications as well as vitamins, nutritional supplements or herbal remedies. Your complete neurological examination may include tests such as:
TreatmentsYour neurology team at the Epilepsy Center, along with your primary care doctor, will design a treatment plan tailored to your condition and individual needs. You may require more than one kind of treatment — such as medication and surgery — and may be referred to other medical professionals. MedicationMost seizures can be prevented with medication. The type of medication prescribed will depend on your condition. Your neurologist will explain how to take your medication and what side effects might occur. Over time, your medication may be changed to find the right drug and dose. Be sure to take your medication as directed. Call your neurologist if you have questions or experience any unexpected side effects. SurgeryFor some patients, surgery may be recommended to prevent seizures or to implant devices that deliver medications or stimulators to emit electrical impulses. Your neurologist will explain the procedure as well as possible risks. These procedures include: Focal ResectionsThese procedures are the most common operations for treating epilepsy and provide the best chance for patients to gain complete seizure control. They involve removing a small area of the brain where seizures originate. New brain monitoring techniques allow doctors to better pinpoint the brain tissue causing seizures. Types of resections include:
Visualase Thermal Laser AblationIn this procedure, a laser fiber is inserted through a small hole in the skull and guided toward the source of the patient's seizures. The laser then heats and destroys the small, well-defined area of abnormal brain tissue, leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. Responsive NeurostimulationA small, battery-powered device is surgically implanted in the skull. The device detects abnormal electrical activity in the brain and delivers imperceptible levels of electrical stimulation to normalize brain activity before a seizure begins. The FDA approved the device in November 2014, and UCSF is one of the first centers on the West Coast to provide this new treatment option to patients. Disconnection ProceduresThese procedures attempt to stop or reduce seizures by cutting the nerve pathways through which seizure impulses travel in the brain. Vagal nerve stimulationThis minor surgery is a relatively new treatment that helps prevent or lessen the severity of seizures. An electrical stimulator is implanted that sends regular electrical pulses through the vagus nerve to the brain to reduce the onset or frequency of seizures. If a seizure occurs between doses of current, a magnet can be passed over the device to trigger an additional dose. If you have a vagus nerve stimulator implanted, you'll continue to take medication but may be able to reduce the amount or number of medications. This procedure can treat a wide variety of seizure disorders when other surgical procedures aren't an option. Most medical treatments may involve some risks or complications. Your neurologist will explain any possible risks or complications from the treatments you'll receive. Don't be afraid to ask your doctors, nurses or therapists about your treatment. If your treatment includes medication, be sure to take it exactly as the doctor has ordered. And remember to keep all your follow-up appointments with our doctors and other medical staff. Self-Care RecommendationsTo help cope with epilepsy and reduce your chance of injury from seizures, we recommend these guidelines:
What type of seizure does a person lose consciousness fall stiffen and jerk?Tonic and Clonic Seizures
In a tonic seizure, the person's muscles stiffen, and they lose consciousness.
What types of seizures cause loss of consciousness?Tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, are the most dramatic type of epileptic seizure and can cause an abrupt loss of consciousness, body stiffening and shaking, and sometimes loss of bladder control or biting your tongue.
What type of seizures cause jerking?Myoclonic seizures are characterized by brief, jerking spasms of a muscle or muscle group.
What are the 4 types of seizures?Types of Generalized-Onset Seizures. Absence Seizures (“Petit Mal Seizures”) ... . Myoclonic seizures. ... . Tonic and Atonic Seizures (“Drop Attacks”) ... . Tonic, Clonic and Tonic-Clonic (Formerly called Grand Mal) Seizures.. |