A seizure is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain's neurons. 5-10% of people will have at least one seizure at some time in their lives. It is called epilepsy when the seizures are repeated, becoming a chronic process.
It may be caused by traumatic brain injury, sequelae of meningitis, tumours or toxins. When no identified cause is identified, it is called an idiopathic seizure.
Symptoms vary depending on the area of the brain affected, and this is the basis for the classification of seizures: tonic-clonic seizures (disconnection, rigidity, muscle spasms), simple and complex partial seizures (repetitive movement of a specific area), absent seizures (disconnection from the environment).
Diagnosis is made by clinical examination, physical examination, blood tests and electroencephalogram. Other imaging tests may be ordered to study the triggering cause.
Treatment in the acute phase consists of anticonvulsant drugs. If more than one episode occurs, maintenance treatment is usually prescribed to prevent recurrences. In cases that do not respond to treatment, deep sedation (induced coma) may be necessary. The triggering cause should be corrected if known.
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