Watching someone have convulsions or lose consciousness can be a scary thing. Seizures can be devastating and can severely impact a person’s daily life. There are many types of seizures: focal seizures, absence seizures, tonic seizures, atonic seizures, clonic seizures, febrile seizures, myoclonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures. And they all come with various symptoms. But what causes seizures and when should you see a doctor?
What are Seizures?
Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. These electrical disturbances can alter a person’s bodily movements, behavior, emotions, and consciousness. Most seizures last thirty seconds to two minutes. Anyone having a seizure that lasts longer than two minutes should be taken to an emergency room.
What Causes Seizures?
Seizures are more common than you would think. They can be caused by a brain infection, brain injury, brain defect, or brain tumor. Drug abuse and abnormal levels of sodium or glucose in the blood can also cause seizures. Many times, the cause of the seizures is unknown.
Can Seizures Be Treated?
Medications can generally help control seizure conditions. Because of the impact on a person’s daily life, it’s important to work closely with a doctor to regulate medications.
When To Go to a Doctor for Seizure:
Seek immediate medical help if the person having a seizure:
- Is seizing for more than two minutes
- Is not breathing or consciousness does not return after the seizure stops
- Has another seizure immediately after the first
- Has a high fever
- May be experiencing heat exhaustion
- Is potentially pregnant
- Is diabetic
- Injured themselves during the seizure
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