Epilepsy and Seizures

Diterbitkan pada: 15/07/2024

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder. It is typically diagnosed when one has consistent seizures, where the neurons or brain cells uncontrollably send out electrical signals, and cause disruption of normal communications between brain cells.

Seizures

Seizures are sudden when many brain cells send signals at the same time. Imagine a traffic light system is overloaded by signals from multiple stations. The excessive electrical activity in the brain may cause involuntary movements and/or behaviours such as fall, shake, rapid blinking, seeming disconnected by staring at one spot and loss of consciousness. Most seizures last from few seconds to less than 5 minutes. You may need to call an ambulance if it lasts longer than 5 minutes.

Seizure is mainly categorised into two groups based on its onset location: focal seizure and generalised seizure. Focal seizure happens at one specific area, while generalized seizure involves the entire brain.

There are many types of seizures. One may have single or recurring episodes of seizures, or more than one type of seizures. Having a single seizure doesn't help a neurologist to diagnose an epilepsy.

Causes

Epilepsy may happen due to different conditions, but not limited to:

Brain tumours
Alzheimer's disease
Strokes, heart attacks, and other conditions that deprive the brain of oxygen
Alcoholism or alcohol withdrawal
Severe head injuries, brain inflammation or swelling
Infections such as meningitis, HIV-related infections, and viral encephalitis

Trigger factors for epilepsy may be due to, but not limited to:

Stress
Fever
Hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle
Sleep issues or deprivation
Visual stimulation such as flashing lights or moving patterns
Drinking alcohol, or alcohol withdrawal
Severe concussion and traumatic brain injury
Genetic

Diagnosis

A neurologist may diagnose an epilepsy or seizure based on symptoms and diagnostic tests:

EEG test
CT scan
MRI scan
PET scan
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
Medical history and blood tests (by looking for metabolic and blood chemistry imbalances, immune system problem, toxins and poisons)

The information is brought to you by Resident Neurologist, Dr Jayaganth Jayabal from Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani. To schedule an appointment with him, please click here.

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