Dream Of Someone Having A Seizure? Best 268 Answer

February 3, 2022

Nocturnal seizures are very common in people with epilepsy. Learn about signs of seizures during sleep and different ways to deal with them.

Have you ever woken up with a headache, bruises, or sheets thrown on the floor? Maybe you had a night seizure. Nocturnal seizures are common in people with epilepsy — up to 45% of people with epilepsy have most of their seizures during sleep, according to a study in the Journal of Neurology.

Seizures during sleep can be very difficult to diagnose. When you have the nocturnal seizures, you have no memory of the seizure. In the same way, if it’s your child having seizures, you may not be able to see them, so you can’t know for sure.

Diagnosing and controlling sleep seizures is very important because nocturnal seizures can be risky. They could cause you to fall out of bed and injure yourself, and you may feel very tired the next day. Doctors also believe that nocturnal seizures are associated with a higher risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).

Here’s everything you need to know about seizures while you sleep.

Signs that you had a seizure while you were sleeping

It can be very difficult to tell if someone was having seizures while they were sleeping. However, there are certain typical seizure symptoms during sleep:

fall out of bed

Waking up with bruises that weren’t there before

Confusion or headache the next morning

bedwetting

Sheets tangled or thrown on the floor

Other things in the bedroom fell over

The problem with identifying signs that you had a seizure while you were asleep is that some of these signs can easily be mistaken for something else — like sleepwalking or sleep apnea.

A seizure is the change in physical behavior that occurs after an episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

The term “seizure” is often used interchangeably with “convulsion.” During convulsions, a person has uncontrollable tremors that are rapid and rhythmic, with muscles contracting and relaxing repeatedly. There are many different types of seizures. Some have mild symptoms without shaking.

Having a brain spasm can be a terrifying experience. When you have a seizure, there was a problem with too much uncoordinated electrical activity in your brain. In general, a seizure occurs when too many of your brain cells are being aroused at the same time. There are two different types of seizures, generalized and partial. In a generalized seizure, your brain has abnormal electrical activity on both sides of your brain. Partial seizures occur when electrical activity increases in one part of your brain. Seizures can occur for many reasons; It can be caused by high levels of salt or sugar in your blood; Brain injury from a stroke or head injury Brain problems you were born with or maybe a brain tumor. Dementia such as Alzheimer’s, high fever, or diseases or infections that damage your brain. Illicit drug use or withdrawal from alcohol or drug use can also cause seizures. So what are the signs that someone is having a seizure? Some people with seizures may have simple staring spells, while others have violent, uncontrollable shaking and loss of consciousness. Some people will see flashing lights, others may hallucinate. Some people may have strange sensations, such as B. Tingling, smelling an odor that isn’t really there, or emotional changes. Most people who have a seizure for the first time go to the emergency room. The doctor will run tests to rule out medical causes, such as a stroke. You may have blood tests, a CT or MRI scan of your head, or a spinal tap. Treatment depends on the cause of your seizure. For example, if an attack is caused by a fever, treatment will focus on bringing the fever down. Your doctor may send you home with some medicines to help you avoid further seizures if there is reason to believe you are at ongoing risk of seizures. You should get plenty of sleep and try to keep as regular a schedule as possible and avoid too much stress. Most people with seizures can lead very active lifestyles. Plan ahead for the possible dangers of a particular activity. Avoid any activity where unconsciousness would be dangerous until it is clear that seizures are unlikely to recur.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes a person to have seizures. It is one of the most common diseases of the nervous system. It affects people of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds.

The brain is made up of nerve cells that communicate with each other through electrical activity. A seizure occurs when one or more parts of the brain have a burst of abnormal electrical signals that disrupt normal brain signals. Anything that disrupts the normal connections between nerve cells in the brain can cause a seizure. These include a high fever, high or low blood sugar, alcohol or drug withdrawal, or a concussion. But when a person has 2 or more seizures with no known cause, it is diagnosed as epilepsy.

There are different types of seizures. The type of seizure depends on which part and how much of the brain is affected and what is happening during the seizure. The 2 main categories of epileptic seizures are focal (partial) seizures and generalized seizures.

Focal (partial) seizures

Partial seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical brain function in one or more areas on one side of the brain. Before a partial seizure, you may have an aura or signs that a seizure is imminent. This is more common with a complex partial seizure. The most common aura involves feelings of déjà vu, impending doom, fear, or euphoria. Or you have visual changes, hearing problems, or changes in your sense of smell. The 2 types of partial seizures include:

Simple focal seizure

Symptoms depend on which area of ​​the brain is affected. If the abnormal electrical brain function is in the part of the brain responsible for vision (occipital lobes), your vision may be affected. Muscles are more commonly affected. Seizure activity is confined to an isolated muscle group. For example, it may involve just the fingers or larger muscles in the arms and legs. You may also sweat, feel nauseous, or turn pale. You don’t lose consciousness with these types of seizures.

Complex partial seizure

These types of seizures often occur in the area of ​​the brain that controls emotions and memory (the temporal lobes). You will likely lose consciousness. This does not have to mean that you will pass out. Maybe you just stop being aware of what’s going on around you. They may look awake but have a number of unusual behaviors. These can range from gagging, smacking, running, screaming, crying, or laughing. You may feel tired or sleepy after the attack. This is called the postictal period.

Generalized seizure

A generalized seizure occurs on both sides of the brain. After the seizure you lose consciousness and are tired (postictal state). Types of generalized seizures include:

absence seizure

This is also called a petit mal seizure. This seizure causes a momentary altered state of consciousness and rigidity. You will likely maintain your posture. Your mouth or face may twitch, or your eyes may blink rapidly. The seizure usually lasts no longer than 30 seconds. When the seizure is over, you may not remember what just happened. You can continue with your activities as if nothing happened. These attacks can occur several times a day.

Atonic seizure

This is also known as a drop attack. With an atonic seizure, you suddenly lose muscle tone and may fall from a standing position or suddenly drop your head. During the seizure you will be limp and unresponsive.

Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (GTC)

This is also called a grand mal seizure. The classic form of this type of seizure has 5 different phases. Your body, arms, and legs will bend (contract), straighten (stretch), and tremble (tremble). This is followed by contraction and relaxation of the muscles (clonic period) and the postictal period. You may feel sleepy during the postictal period. They may have trouble seeing or speaking, and may have severe headaches, tiredness, or body aches. Not all of these phases occur in everyone with these types of seizures.

myoclonic seizure

This type of seizure causes rapid movement or sudden twitching of a muscle group. These seizures usually occur in clusters. This means that they can appear several times a day or several days in a row.

What causes a seizure?

A seizure can be caused by many things. This can include:

An imbalance in nerve-signaling brain chemicals (neurotransmitters)

brain tumor

Stroke

Brain damage from illness or injury

Epilepsy can be caused by a combination of these. In most cases, the cause of epilepsy cannot be found.

What are the symptoms of a seizure?

Your symptoms depend on the type of seizure. General symptoms or warning signs of a seizure may include:

stare

Twitching movements of the arms and legs

stiffening of the body

loss of consciousness

Difficulty breathing or stopping breathing

Loss of bowel or bladder control

Sudden fall for no apparent reason, especially combined with loss of consciousness

Does not respond to sounds or words for a short time

Appearing confused or dazed

Rhythmic head nod when accompanied by loss of consciousness or unconsciousness

Periods of rapid blinking and staring

During the attack, your lips may turn blue and your breathing may not be normal. You may feel sleepy or confused after the attack.

The symptoms of a seizure can be similar to those of other diseases. Be sure to talk to your doctor to get a diagnosis.

How are seizures diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You will be asked about other factors that may have caused your seizure, such as:

drug or alcohol use

A recent head injury

High fever or infection

Genetic abnormality

You may also have:

A neurological examination

Blood tests to check for problems with blood sugar and other factors

Brain imaging studies, such as B. an MRI or CT scan

Electroencephalogram to test your brain’s electrical activity

Lumbar tap (spinal tap) to measure the pressure in the brain and spinal canal and to test the spinal fluid for infection or other problems

How are seizures treated?

The goal of treatment is to control, stop, or reduce the frequency at which seizures occur. The treatment is mostly drug-based. There are many types of medicines used to treat epilepsy. Your healthcare provider will need to identify the type of seizure you are having. Medications are chosen based on the type of seizure, the person’s age, side effects, cost, and ease of use. Medicines used at home are usually taken orally as capsules, tablets, sprinkles, or syrup. Some medicines can be given into the rectum. If you’re in the hospital with seizures, the medicine can be given by injection or intravenously through a vein (IV).

It is important to take your medicine on time and as prescribed by your doctor. People’s bodies respond to medications differently, so your schedule and dosage may need to be adjusted to achieve the best seizure control. All medications can have side effects. Talk to your doctor about possible side effects. While you are taking medicines you may need tests to see how well the medicine is working. You may have:

blood tests. You may need frequent blood tests to check the levels of medicines in your body. Based on this value, your doctor may change the dose of your medicine. You can also have blood tests to check the effects of the medicine on your other organs.

urine tests. Your urine may be tested to see how your body is reacting to the medicine.

Electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG is a procedure that records the electrical activity of the brain. It does this by attaching electrodes to your scalp. This test is done to see how medications are helping electrical problems in your brain.

other treatments

If the drug isn’t working well enough for you, your doctor may recommend other types of treatment. You may have:

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)

This treatment sends small pulses of energy from one of the vagus nerves to the brain. This is a pair of big nerves in the neck. If you have partial seizures that aren’t well controlled with medication, VNS may be an option. VNS is performed by surgically inserting a small battery into the chest wall. Then small wires are attached to the battery and placed under the skin and around one of the vagus nerves. The battery is then programmed to send pulses of energy to the brain every few minutes. When you sense an impending seizure, you can activate the pulses by holding a small magnet over the battery. In many cases, this helps stop the seizure. VNS can have side effects such as a hoarse voice, pain in the throat, or voice changes.

surgery

Surgery may be done to remove the part of the brain where the seizures are occurring. Or the surgery will help stop the bad electrical currents from spreading through the brain. Surgery may be an option if your seizures are difficult to control and always start in a part of the brain that doesn’t affect speech, memory, or vision. The operation of epilepsy seizures is very complex. It is performed by a specialized surgical team. You may be awake during the operation. The brain itself does not feel pain. If you’re awake and able to follow directions, surgeons can better examine areas of your brain during the procedure. Surgery is not an option for everyone with seizures.

living with epilepsy

If you have epilepsy, you can manage your health. Make sure, that:

Take your medicine exactly as directed

Get enough sleep, because lack of sleep can trigger a seizure

Avoid anything that could trigger a seizure

Get tested as often as you need to

Visit your doctor regularly

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if:

Your symptoms get worse or don’t improve

You have side effects from medication

Key Points About Epilepsy and Seizures

Identifying the warning signs of a seizure

Although they can be frightening to watch, most seizures resolve on their own and cause minimal concern. The problem is that people can sometimes injure themselves or develop medical emergencies during a seizure. For certain types of seizures, there are warning signs that a seizure is imminent. If you or your loved one are prone to seizures, recognizing the warning signs of a seizure can help you better manage the situation.

Prodrome (early warning signs)

People with generalized seizures, also known as tonic-clonic seizures, may experience the following symptoms a few hours or days before an attack. They are mostly emotional signals:

mood swings

inability to concentrate

Increased restlessness and irritability

depression

drowsiness

headache

sleep disorders

Aura (Late Warning Signs)

People with partial seizures may have the following signs seconds or minutes before the actual seizure:

Unusual smells, tastes, sounds or sensations

nausea

A feeling of déjà vu (feeling like you are experiencing something that happened before)

Intense fear and panic

Tingling in certain parts of your body

Jerky movements of the arm, leg, or body

weakness and fall to the ground

Identify the warning signs that will help you get to a safe place and let someone know something is going on. It’s a good idea to keep a seizure diary to keep track of what signs and symptoms are occurring in your case. You must pay particular attention to changes that may be due to a change in medication and inform your doctor.

Bystanders are generally advised to allow the seizure and to observe the 3Cs – remain calm, cover the subject’s head with a pillow to avoid injury, and call an ambulance if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.

North Suffolk Neurology is a full-service neurology, headache and sleep medicine practice comprised of dedicated, experienced staff dedicated to helping our patients and their families maintain and improve their health. To schedule an appointment, please call: (631) 364-9119.

A good night’s sleep helps our brain recover from the events of the day so we can function well the next day. For some people with epilepsy, a lack of sleep can make seizures more common, for others, nighttime seizures can make them feel tired during the day.

Is there a link between epilepsy and sleep?

The connections between epilepsy and sleep are very complex. During sleep, the brain is active, processing information that helps us learn. Brain activity changes during different stages of sleep.

Different stages of sleep

Sleep occurs in an alternating pattern and is divided into two different, alternating categories of sleep types.

Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM), light and deep sleep divided into phases

REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

Sleep without rapid eye movements

Light sleep

Stage One – During this first stage of NREM sleep, our muscles begin to relax, we are half awake and half asleep and can be easily aroused.

Phase Two – During this second phase, our heart rate and breathing slow down and some people with epilepsy may be more likely to experience seizures as we move from this phase into the third phase, deep sleep.

deep sleep

Stage three is deep sleep (sometimes called slow wave sleep). Our breathing and heart rate slow down, and our brain begins to produce “delta waves,” a type of brain wave associated with deep sleep. Delta waves increase when sleep deepens and it is difficult to wake up. When we are awakened at this stage, we are often confused. Sleepwalking and night terrors are more likely to occur during deep sleep than light sleep.

Scientists believe that NREM sleep is important for strengthening the connections between our brain cells and stabilizing long-term memory. Deep sleep also helps the brain recover from the day’s events so it can function well the next day.

Sleep with rapid eye movements

The next phase of deep sleep is when we dream the most. During REM sleep, the brain tries to organize the information we’ve received throughout the day.

The purpose of REM sleep and dreaming is unclear. However, some theories suggest that it may be important to understand our thoughts, ideas, and experiences, and the emotions and memories associated with them.

Lack of sleep can affect our memories and judgment. It can also affect our mood and how well our immune system works.

Is there a link between seizures and sleep?

Some people have specific triggers for their seizures, such as lack of sleep. In some types of epilepsy, seizures can occur upon waking and within the next few hours. People with epilepsy may have an irregular sleep pattern, as seizures at any time of the night can disrupt sleep, and seizures during the day can disrupt the next night’s sleep. For some people, the effects of a seizure can disrupt their sleep patterns for several days afterwards.

Do antiepileptic drugs affect sleep?

Like all medications, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) can cause side effects in some people. AEDs can have different effects on sleep, and this can vary from person to person depending on the dose. Some AEDs are classified as tranquilizers and can cause fatigue. Some can cause insomnia or trouble sleeping. However, some AEDs can help improve sleep quality by increasing the duration of deep sleep.

Seizures beginning during sleep

Some people with epilepsy have “sleep attacks” (sometimes called “nocturnal seizures”), which occur when they are asleep, falling asleep, or waking up. Frontal lobe epilepsy is a type of epilepsy in which seizures can commonly occur during both NREM sleep and waking states. Frontal lobe seizures often occur in “clusters” (many occur close together in time) but are usually brief. These include sudden jerky movements, strange postures or movements of the arms or legs, loud yelling or yelling, and tumbling around while you sleep.

sleep disorders

Some sleep disorders are called “parasomnias”: unusual events related to sleep. These may include confused behavior during sleep, sleepwalking, or night terrors (where a person suddenly awakens from sleep in panic or fear). This can happen when some parts of the brain are awake and others are asleep. Some parasomnias involve unusual movements or sounds. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is having seizures or if what is happening to them is part of a parasomnia. It may be helpful to keep a record or video of what is happening during the event to help with diagnosis. Seizures often follow a similar pattern when they occur, and it can be obvious when a seizure begins and when it ends. However, parasomnias do not necessarily follow a pattern and often have no clear ending. Some symptoms of narcolepsy (a rare condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to fall asleep at any time of the day) are sometimes confused with epilepsy. For example, some people with narcolepsy develop cataplexy, a loss of muscle tone that often affects the jaw, neck, and limbs. Symptoms can also include slurred speech or blurred vision, and some people may collapse. A cataplexy episode can be triggered by emotions such as laughter, anger, or surprise.

epilepsy and sleep disorders

Some people with epilepsy also have sleep disorders that are unrelated to their epilepsy, and some conditions can be confused with epilepsy. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in which a person snores and then stops breathing for brief periods during sleep, may be more common in people with epilepsy. It is sometimes caused by low muscle tone around the airways. This can occur as a result of weight gain, which can be a side effect of some AEDs. In addition to sleep disturbances, obstructive sleep apnea can trigger seizures in some people. If you snore and are told you’re stopping breathing while you sleep, your GP may order a simple, painless test to monitor the level of oxygen in your blood overnight to help diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. Visit sleep-apnoea-trust.org for more information and a list of NHS sleep clinics in the UK.

Tips for good sleep

There are some simple things you can do to help you get a good night’s sleep.

• If you usually have a hot drink before bed, try a milky drink rather than one that contains caffeine (research suggests that reducing caffeine up to six hours before bedtime can improve sleep quality).

• Try not to eat meals or drink alcohol late at night.

• Try to get up at the same time every day and set a regular bedtime.

• Try to reduce distractions and avoid disturbances during the night by keeping mobile devices, such as phones and tablets, out of the bedroom.

• Try to relax before bedtime and avoid watching television or using a computer just before bedtime.

• Create a quiet environment by keeping your room at a comfortable temperature and as dark as possible.

• Make sure your bed is comfortable and that your pillow gives you adequate support.

• If you nap during the day, try to limit it to 15 minutes or less. This can help maintain a regular sleep pattern throughout the night.

If you have trouble sleeping, your GP or specialist can refer you to a specialist sleep clinic.

The Epilepsy Society thanks Dr. Hugh Selsick, Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine, for his comments on this information.

Information created: June 2019

Important points

In status epilepticus, the seizures last too long

It is a medical emergency that can occur with any type of seizure

Some people are prescribed rescue medication to treat status epilepticus

If you have epilepsy, it’s important to have an up-to-date treatment plan so those around you know what to do if status epilepticus occurs.

What is status epilepticus?

Most people with epilepsy have seizures that last a short time and stop on their own. But sometimes a seizure can last too long and become status epilepticus (sometimes you’ll just hear it abbreviated as “status”). It happens when a seizure doesn’t stop in the usual amount of time, or when someone has consecutive seizures without recovering in between. Status epilepticus can occur with any type of seizure.

There are many different causes. Status epilepticus can occur in people who have been diagnosed with epilepsy and also in people who have never had a seizure before. This can happen, for example, because of a stroke or head injury, or because of drug or alcohol abuse.

Spasmodic (tonic-clonic) status epilepticus

Spasmodic status epilepticus is when:

A tonic-clonic seizure lasts 5 minutes or longer, or

Minutes or longer, one tonic-clonic seizure follows another without the person regaining consciousness in between

When any of these things happen, the person needs urgent treatment to stop the status before it causes long-term damage. If convulsive status epilepticus lasts 30 minutes or more, it can cause permanent brain damage or even death.

Other forms of status epilepticus

Some forms of status epilepticus are known to be nonconvulsive. They occur when a nonconvulsive seizure, such as B. a seizure with absence or focal disturbance of consciousness, lasts too long. These can be harder to spot because the signs and symptoms are less obvious. For example, someone who is in absent state or focally impaired awareness state may appear confused and less responsive than usual, or exhibit changes in their speech or behavior for no clear reason.

Even non-seizure status epilepticus can be very serious for some people, depending on the cause of the seizure. If someone you care for is at risk of developing status epilepticus, their specialist doctor should tell you what signs to look for and when to get help. Nonconvulsive status epilepticus usually requires specialist evaluation and an EEG test to diagnose it and look for other possible causes that might have similar symptoms.

Other types of seizures can also become status epilepticus if they last too long. For example, some people with a rare type of epilepsy called Lennox-Gastaut syndrome may have tonic status epilepticus. This is when a person has repeated tonic seizures, in which their whole body stiffens, with little or no recovery in between.

How can I reduce my risk of status epilepticus if I have epilepsy?

Here are some ways you can reduce your risk of status epilepticus:

Always take your epilepsy medication regularly and never stop or reduce your medicine without the advice of your doctor or nurse. Missing doses and suddenly stopping epilepsy medication are common triggers for status epilepticus

Get the right treatment and care for your epilepsy to help you have as few seizures as possible

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, but if you are addicted to alcohol, seek medical advice before stopping. Alcohol withdrawal after binge drinking can be a trigger for status epilepticus

Find out if you have any triggers for your seizures and avoid them whenever you can

Talk to your epilepsy specialist if you’re concerned about status epilepticus

What is the treatment for status epilepticus?

There are a number of medications available in the hospital that doctors can use to stop status epilepticus. You usually give these medicines by injection or directly into your body through a small plastic tube that is inserted into a vein (called a drip). The rescue service (paramedic) also carries medication with them so that they can start treatment as soon as they arrive.

If someone with epilepsy has a known increased risk of a dangerous type of status epilepticus, their doctor may prescribe emergency medicine (sometimes called rescue medicine) for them. It is usually only prescribed for convulsive status epilepticus.

The goal of emergency medicine is to stop the condition early, before it causes long-term damage. When the status stops, the person may not need to go to the hospital, depending on how well they are recovering and what their care plan says. Emergency medicine can be administered by a family member, caregiver, teacher, or colleague who has been trained to administer it.

types of emergency medicine

There are two main types of emergency medicine approved for use in the UK:

Buccal midazolam: Given with a plastic syringe between the gum and the person’s cheek. Brand names include Buccolam and Epistatus

This is given with a plastic syringe between the gum and the person’s cheek. Brand names include Buccolam and Epistatus Rectal Diazepam: This is administered rectally (inserted into the person’s bottom). Brand names include Diazepam RecTube and Stesolid

A small number of children are prescribed a different type of emergency medicine called rectal paraldehyde.

care plans

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) says everyone with epilepsy should have a care plan. A care plan is an agreement between the person with epilepsy, their healthcare professional, and, if applicable, their family or caregivers. The plan of care should indicate how to determine if the person has status epilepticus and what to do. A care plan needs to be kept up to date and shared with the right people. It should also include details of any rescue medication prescribed, who is trained to use it, and when it should be given.

You can download a care plan and review template from our website.

How can I get trained in emergency medicine?

If you need to give your child, family member or loved one emergency medicine, you should be shown how to use it. An epilepsy nurse or community nurse will usually give you this training. Inform the nurse if other people, e.g. B. School staff who need to give emergency medication. The nurse may also be able to train them. Schools may also be able to organize training from their school nurse or the local community nursing team.

There are a number of training providers that offer emergency medicine training. Contact the Epilepsy Action Helpline for a list of training providers.

More resources

Sample treatment plans for buccal midazolam and rectal diazepam are available upon request from the Epilepsy Action Helpline.

The manufacturers of Buccolam and Epistatus have websites with instructions and videos showing how to administer their products.

Great Ormond Street Hospital has written a pamphlet about giving children an enema with paraldehyde and olive oil (in the butt).

If you would like to see this information with references, please contact Epilepsy Action Info_Requests_Helpline

overview

If you see someone having a seizure, stay calm. Although seizures seem to last a long time, they usually last less than 3 minutes.

A seizure can be scary, especially if you’ve never seen one before. A seizure temporarily impairs muscle control, movement, speech, vision, or consciousness. It can cause a person’s entire body to tremble for a few seconds to a few minutes and cause them to lose consciousness.

Seizures can range from mild to severe, and they affect people differently. Even if you feel helpless around someone who is having a seizure and find it difficult to watch, there are many things you can do to help.

Time the seizure if you can. If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or the attacker is pregnant (no matter how long the seizure lasts), call 911 or another emergency service immediately.

Protect the person from injury. Prevent them from falling if you can, or try to gently guide the person to the ground. Try to move furniture or other objects that could injure the person during the seizure. Try laying the person on their side to allow fluid to come out of the mouth.

Do not force anything, including your fingers, into the person’s mouth.

Don’t try to hold the person down. This can lead to injuries such as a dislocated shoulder.

Provide a safe area for the person to rest after the seizure. Check the person for injuries. Roll the person onto their side if this was not possible during the seizure. Loosen tight clothing around the person’s neck and waist. Do not offer anything to eat or drink until the person is fully awake and alert. Stay with the person until they are awake and familiar with their surroundings. Most people feel sleepy or confused after a seizure.

You may be able to provide valuable feedback to the doctor treating the person having the seizure. Try to remember:

How the person’s body moved.

How long the seizure lasted.

How the person was behaving before the seizure.

How the person behaved immediately after the seizure.

Whether the person suffered injuries as a result of the seizure.

When to get emergency help

Seizures do not always require urgent treatment. But call 911 or other emergency services immediately if:

The ketogenic diet consists primarily of high-fat foods, with most of the remaining calories coming from proteins. The diet is very low in carbohydrates and is designed to induce a metabolic state known as ketosis. Ketosis causes the body’s cells to use fuels called ketones, which are broken down from fats, instead of glucose, which is broken down from carbohydrates.

Ketosis mimics a fasted state, and research shows that seizures often lessen or disappear in some people with epilepsy during fasting periods. Some people can quit the ketogenic diet after a few years and remain seizure-free.

The diet is mainly used in children with epilepsy, but adults can also use the diet. High-fat foods include mayonnaise, butter, and cream. Small portions of fruit, cheese, meat, fish and poultry are allowed. Food must be carefully measured and weighed.

Even small amounts of sugar can reverse the effects of the diet and cause a seizure, so sugar is forbidden. Therefore, people following this diet need to take care that medicines, vitamins, toothpaste and other products do not contain sugar.

Epileptic seizures can be divided into two main types: focal seizures and generalized seizures. Seizures can vary from person to person, and how people are affected and recover from seizures varies. How best to help someone during a seizure depends on what type of seizure they are having and how it is affecting them.

Go to:

First aid for wheelchair users

First aid in the water

focal seizures

Focal seizures start in and affect one part of the brain: either a large part or just a small area. What happens during the seizure depends on where in the brain the seizure is occurring and what that part of the brain is normally doing.

Focal conscious seizures (formerly simple partial seizures)

During a partial seizure, the person is conscious (conscious and alert) and usually knows the seizure is occurring. A focally conscious seizure can be an unusual smell or taste, a twitching of an arm or hand, an odd “upwelling” feeling in the stomach, or a sudden feeling of intense joy or fear.

how to help

since the person may be feeling strange or upset, it may help to calm them down.

Focal disturbances of consciousness (formerly complex partial seizures)

Partial-disorder seizures affect the brain more than partial-disorder seizures. The person’s consciousness is impaired, they may be confused and not know what they are doing. They may wander around, act strangely, pick up objects, or make chewing motions with their mouths. After that, they may be confused or need to sleep for a while. These seizures can last a few seconds or a few minutes.

how to help

Do not hold the person as this may upset or confuse them

Gently guide them away from any danger, such as going out into the street

Speak softly and calmly as they may be confused. If you speak loudly or touch them, they may not understand and become upset or react aggressively.

After confiscation:

You may feel tired and want to sleep. It might be helpful to remind them where they are.

stay with them until they recover and can safely return to what they were doing before.

Some people recover quickly, others take longer to feel normal again.

Focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (previously secondary generalized seizures)

Sometimes a focal seizure spreads and affects both sides of the brain. This is called a focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizure. Some people call the partial seizure an “aura” or “alert” because it warns them that a tonic-clonic seizure may follow.

how to help

If you or the person knows a warning, they may need help getting to a safe place before the tonic-clonic seizure occurs.

Generalized seizures

Generalized seizures affect both hemispheres of the brain at the same time and occur without warning. The person usually becomes unconscious and has no memory of the seizure afterwards.

absence seizures

During an absence seizure, the person becomes unconscious for a short period of time. They may look blank and stare, unresponsive to what is happening around them. If they walk, they may walk further but are unaware of what they are doing.

how to help

Stay with the person and gently guide them away from danger.

Tonic and atonic seizures

During a tonic seizure, the person’s muscles suddenly become stiff. When standing, they often fall, usually backwards, and can injure the back of their heads.

In an atonic seizure (or “fall attack”), the person’s muscles suddenly relax and become limp. When standing, they often fall, usually forward, and may injure their head or face.

Both seizures are brief and occur without warning. Most people usually recover quickly.

how to help

it can be helpful to calm them down

If they are injured, they may need medical attention.

myoclonic seizures

Myoclonic means “muscle twitching,” and these seizures involve twitching of a limb or part of a limb. They often occur soon after waking up, are brief, and can occur frequently (many occur close together in time).

how to help

You don’t have to do anything to help during the seizure other than make sure the person is not injured.

Tonic-clonic and clonic seizures

During a tonic-clonic seizure, the person becomes stiff (‘tonic’ phase), usually falls to the floor and shakes or has jerky movements (‘clonic’ phase). Their breathing may be troubled and they may turn pale or blue, especially around the mouth. They can also bite their tongue or cheek. Some people have clonic seizures without initially becoming stiff.

Although this can be frightening to see, it is not usually a medical emergency. Usually, once the movements stop, the person recovers and their breathing returns to normal.

How to help during the seizure

try to stay calm.

Check the time to see how long the seizure is lasting (because there may be a risk of status epilepticus – see below).

Do not move the person unless they are in a dangerous location such as B. on the street. Instead, move any objects (such as furniture) away from them so they don’t hurt themselves.

Put something soft (such as a sweater) under your head or put your head in your hands to keep it from falling to the floor.

Look for medical jewelry or an ID card for information on what to do.

don’t hold them down – let the seizure happen.

don’t put anything in their mouths – they won’t swallow their tongues.

Try to keep other people from crowding you.

How to help when the shaking stops

Gently roll them onto their side into the recovery position.

If his breathing sounds difficult or noisy, gently open his mouth to check that nothing is blocking his airway.

wipe spit out of her mouth.

try to minimize any embarrassment. If they do wet themselves, be as private as possible about it (e.g., throw a coat over them).

stay with them until they fully recover. You might need some gentle reassurance.

Do not give them anything to eat or drink until you are sure they have fully recovered.

Some people recover quickly from a tonic-clonic seizure, but often they are very tired, want to sleep, and may not feel normal for several hours or sometimes days.

For most people, the seizures stop on their own and the person does not need medical attention. However, if you are unsure whether someone is recovering from a seizure, was injured during the seizure, or you are worried about them, you might want to consider when to call an ambulance.

Some people could injure themselves during a seizure. Tooth injuries can be common.

Status epilepticus

A person’s seizures usually last the same amount of time each time and stop on their own. Sometimes, however, the seizures don’t stop, or one seizure follows another without the person recovering in between. If this lasts 5 minutes or more, it’s called status epilepticus, or “status.”

The status is not common but can occur with any type of seizure and the person may need to see a doctor.

Tonic-clonic seizure status is a medical emergency and the person needs urgent medical attention. Status can lead to brain damage or even death. It is important to call an ambulance. See when to dial 999.

Some people are prescribed rescue medications, either buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam, to stop their seizures. Caregivers must be trained in administering emergency medication. It is important that the person has an individual written protocol (plan) of when to give it that the caregiver can follow.

Learn more about our emergency medication training.

When to call an ambulance

see our general information on when to call an ambulance

if they have inhaled or swallowed water.

See our information on epilepsy and water sports.

How else can I help?

Checking seizure length is essential to avoid status (see above). Another important reason to check the timing and duration of a seizure is so that you can later pass this information on to the person who had the seizure. Many people keep records of their seizures, and a description of the seizure and how long it lasted can be important information to record and share with your specialist.

Information updated: December 2021

Can Anxiety Cause Seizures? In some cases maybe. And seizures can also lead to anxiety. We’ll explore why and what you can do to manage both. Share on Pinterest Thomas Barwick/Getty Images Anxiety is a human response to stress, expectation, or trauma. For some people, anxiety becomes overwhelming and disruptive in everyday life. Anxiety disorders are among the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses in the United States. Doctors have been trying to figure out the link between anxiety and seizures for years. Although research continues, it is now clear that this connection is strong. However, the connection between them appears to be complex. Anxiety can lead to seizures in some cases, and seizures can lead to anxiety.

Anxiety and Seizures Here’s what we know about how seizures and anxiety are related. How Can Seizures Cause Anxiety? It’s natural to feel anxious after a seizure or when a doctor has just diagnosed you with epilepsy. As with many chronic illnesses and traumatic events, seizures can be unsettling and some people find them frightening. Seizure symptoms that may worry some people include: palpitations

Sweat

hyperventilation

Loss of Motor Control Knowing that a seizure can occur without warning can make you feel anxious in social or public situations. This element of surprise can seriously affect your mental well-being. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding epilepsy and seizures is also very real and can add to your anxiety. Researchers have found that the brain regions and mechanisms involved in seizures overlap with those critical to anxiety. How can stress and anxiety cause a seizure? If you have seizures, you may find that they occur more frequently during particularly stressful times. Because measuring stress and anxiety can be subjective and vague, there’s no clear evidence that stress and anxiety directly cause seizures. However, according to research into people’s experiences with seizures, stress and anxiety can trigger seizures, and current research often underestimates the role they can play. Lack of sleep is a common trigger for seizures, and this can often happen in people who are under overwhelming stress. For this reason, health experts recommend sticking to a strict sleep schedule as a technique to treat seizures. However, anxiety can affect sleep quality and duration. Even people with well-treated epilepsy can experience a seizure as a result of severe sleep deprivation. Research shows that differences in the brain’s response to elevated levels of the hormone cortisol during moments of high anxiety may also help explain why stress causes seizures in some people. Cortisol is a hormone that your body produces more when you are suffering from stress and anxiety.

What are Pseudoseicures (PNES)? Scientists and healthcare professionals typically classify seizures into one of two categories: epileptic and non-epileptic. The difference between the two lies in their causes. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), or dissociative seizures, used to be called pseudoseizure seizures. They are usually triggered by a particularly emotional or stressful event, or by chronic underlying psychological distress. Divorce, the death of a loved one, and sexual abuse are examples of events commonly associated with PNES. PNES and anxiety are closely intertwined as a seizure can be a response to trauma. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, about half of people with PNES are living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During a PNES you may experience: uncontrolled movements

shaking his head

Loss and regaining of consciousness

memory lapses

Tremble

dizziness or lightheadedness

Palpitations PNES is more likely to happen if you are: a woman

have a history of physical, sexual, or emotional trauma

have an anxiety disorder, depression, or personality disorder Four out of five people with PNES have had a psychiatric disorder at some point in their lives. What is the difference between PNES and panic attacks? The symptoms of both events are similar. However, PNES is less likely to involve the severe feelings of panic and anxiety that accompany panic attacks. Panic attacks and PNES are easily confused. Even medical professionals sometimes confuse one with the other. In fact, there seems to be a close relationship between the two. According to a 2018 analysis of studies, 17% to 83% of people with PNES also experience panic attacks. What distinguishes epileptic seizures from PNES? An epileptic seizure occurs as a result of changes in electrical signaling in the brain. Typically, your brain has regular rhythmic patterns of electrical signals. But when you have an epileptic seizure, these patterns are suddenly disrupted. Instead of firing in the typical pattern, your neurons fire in sync with large bursts of electrical activity. On the other hand, non-epileptic seizures like PNES are not the result of a disturbance in brain activity. Usually another physiological problem or acute psychological stress is the cause.

Can fear cause epilepsy? Stress is one of the most commonly cited seizure triggers in people with epilepsy. A 2017 review of studies suggests that higher levels of stress and anxiety are associated with a greater likelihood of epileptic seizures. The same review also notes that reducing stress levels can significantly improve outcomes for people with epilepsy, suggesting a close relationship between stress and epilepsy. But whether fear can alter brain function enough to directly cause epilepsy remains to be seen. The evidence so far is inconclusive. A 2015 study found that 5 in 1,000 people with epilepsy would have seizures after a highly distressing life event, such as the death of a family member.

Diagnosis To give you the most accurate diagnosis, a doctor needs to do a full medical evaluation and hear from people who have seen your seizures. Due to the overlap of symptoms, PNES is often misdiagnosed as epileptic seizures or sometimes as panic attacks. Brain scans such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are an effective way to diagnose epilepsy. These brain imaging tests allow neurologists to look for a possible physical cause of the seizures, such as: B. a tumor or malformed blood vessels. However, for PNES, these types of scans are generally not helpful. A video electroencephalogram (EEG) is most useful in determining a PNES diagnosis. This type of scan records your movement and activity while also tracking your brainwaves. The goal of a video EEG is to determine if your seizures are actually due to electrical activity in your brain. People with epilepsy are more likely to have recurrent, shorter seizures and respond well to antiseizure drugs.

How to prevent anxiety-induced seizures For people with PNES, identifying the root cause or initial trigger of the seizures is particularly important for successful treatment. It’s a good idea to address any underlying psychiatric conditions you may have. Treating these can reduce or even eliminate your seizures. Treatment for anxiety-induced epileptic and non-epileptic seizures may include: Psychotherapy. About 50% of people with PNES show improvement after 3 months of therapy. Types include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and long-term therapy, which is a type of CBT.

About 50% of people with PNES show improvement after 3 months of therapy. Types include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and long-term therapy, which is a type of CBT. mindfulness Practicing mindfulness can help improve the quality of life for people with drug-resistant epilepsy.

Practicing mindfulness can help improve the quality of life for people with drug-resistant epilepsy. Medication. Many medications have been shown to significantly reduce both anxiety and seizures. These include: Anticonvulsants Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) Benzodiazepines

Many medications have been shown to significantly reduce both anxiety and seizures. These include: While benzodiazepines are effective in treating anxiety and seizures, they come with some risks. If you take them, you may have a high chance of experiencing dependence and withdrawal. We recommend exercising caution when considering medication. Before taking anything, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about the benefits, risks, and whether it’s right for you.

Many people with epilepsy say that sleep deprivation, increased alcohol consumption, and menstrual changes lead to an increase in seizure frequency. You probably already knew that. What you might want to know is why. The reason for this is that all these situations change the excitability of your brain. Your brain is very sensitive to these changes, and if the deviation from normal is large enough, you can start having a seizure.

Emotional stress can also lead to seizures. Emotional stress is usually related to a situation or event that is personally significant to you. It can be a situation where you feel a loss of control. In particular, the type of emotional distress that leads to most seizures is worry or anxiety. One study found that anxiety — another term for worry and anxiety — led to hyperventilation (overbreathing) and an increase in abnormal brain activity and seizures in some patients. Other emotions that have been linked to stress and seizures are frustration and anger. Sometimes stress is a “big” event, but more often than not, people report an accumulation of daily problems or stress.

Falling or choking is a problem for people with epilepsy — but it’s not the only one. The risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is also a concern. When you or a loved one are having seizures, you may have a number of questions going through your mind. For example, can you die from an epileptic seizure? Or can you die of a seizure in your sleep? The short answer is yes, but death from epilepsy, while possible, is also rare. When you hear about someone dying from a seizure, you might assume the person fell and hit their head. It can happen. However, SUDEP is not caused by injury or drowning. It refers to a sudden and unexpected death. Most, but not all, deaths occur during or immediately after a seizure. The exact cause of these deaths is unknown, but researchers believe that longer pauses in breathing result in less oxygen in the blood and asphyxiation. Another theory is that the seizure causes a fatal disruption in the heart’s rhythm, resulting in cardiac arrest. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 1.16 cases of sudden death for every 1,000 people with epilepsy each year. Experts consider it likely that many SUDEP cases go unreported and the number of SUDEP cases could therefore be higher.

What is a seizure? Your brain contains countless nerve cells that generate, send and receive electrical impulses. Seizures occur when a sudden electrical disturbance in the brain causes these nerve cells to stop working. This can trigger: uncontrollable twitching of the body

loss of consciousness

temporary confusion

Loss of consciousness Seizures vary in severity and length. Milder seizures may not cause convulsions and may only last 30 seconds. However, other seizures can cause a person’s entire body to tremble rapidly and last for 2 to 5 minutes. A seizure can be a one-off event after a head injury, stroke, or infection. Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures.

What are risk factors for a fatal seizure? Although rare, it is still important to be aware of risk factors for SUDEP. If you are at risk, there are steps you can take to prevent a deadly seizure. Although the likelihood of dying from a seizure is small, it is higher in people with a history of frequent, uncontrollable seizures and tonic-clonic seizures (sometimes called grand mal seizures). Tonic-clonic seizures are a severe form of epileptic seizures. These can cause sudden loss of consciousness, convulsions, and loss of bladder control. Sudden death is also more likely in people whose seizures start at a young age. However, unexpected death is extremely rare in young children. The risk of sudden death also increases the longer you live with epilepsy. Not taking your medication and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to SUDEP. Seizures that occur during sleep appear to be a risk factor for SUDEP. Risk factors for dying from seizures History of frequent, uncontrollable seizures

tonic-clonic seizures

have seizures since you were very young

a long history of epilepsy

Failure to take antiepileptic drugs as prescribed

drink too much alcohol

To reduce your risk of a fatal seizure See a doctor if your current therapy is not working. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication. It is also helpful to identify seizure triggers. These differ from person to person, so pinpointing your specific triggers can be difficult. Keeping a seizure diary can be helpful. What to Keep in Your Seizure Journal Record when seizures occur, and then write down information that might be relevant. For example: What time of day did the seizure occur?

Did the seizure start after exposure to bright, flashing light?

Did you drink alcohol before an attack? When Yes, how much?

Before you had a seizure, were you under emotional stress?

Did you consume caffeine before the attack?

Did you have a fever?

Have you been sleep deprived or overly tired? Keeping a seizure journal can identify patterns or situations that bring about seizures. Avoiding your triggers could potentially reduce your number of attacks. Use the “Notes” feature on your phone to track seizures, or download a seizure journal app to your smartphone or tablet. You can also reduce the risk of a fatal seizure by avoiding too much alcohol. Also, make sure your family knows about first aid for seizures. This includes lying on the floor and laying on one side of your body. This position can help you breathe easier. You should also loosen ties and unbutton shirts around the neck. If a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, they should call 911.

How are seizures diagnosed? Conditions that can mimic a seizure include a migraine attack, stroke, narcolepsy, and Tourette’s syndrome. To accurately diagnose a seizure, your doctor will ask about your medical history and the events leading up to the seizure. You may have an electroencephalogram (EEG), which is a test that records electrical activity in the brain. It helps detect abnormalities in brain waves. An EEG can diagnose different types of seizures and predict whether another seizure is likely. Your doctor may also order tests to determine the underlying cause of seizures. A neurological exam can look for abnormalities in your nervous system, while a blood test can look for infections or genetic disorders that may contribute to seizures. Imaging tests are also used to look for tumors, lesions, or cysts in your brain. These include a CT scan, an MRI, or a PET scan.

How do you treat a seizure? A seizure triggered by an isolated event does not usually require treatment. However, if you have more than one seizure, your doctor may prescribe an anti-seizure medication to help prevent future seizures. Various medications are effective against seizures. Your doctor will recommend one or more possible medications, depending on the type of seizure. If anti-seizure medications don’t work, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the part of the brain where the seizures originate. Keep in mind that this procedure will only work if the seizures start from the same place. You could also be a candidate for stimulation therapy. Options include vagus nerve stimulation, responsive neural stimulation, or deep brain stimulation. These therapies help inhibit seizures by regulating normal brain activity.

What is the outlook for people with epilepsy? Living with epilepsy has its challenges, but you can live a normal life with the condition. Some people eventually grow out of seizures, or there are years between seizures. The key to managing attacks is understanding your risk and taking action to avoid common triggers. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, nearly 6 in 10 people living with epilepsy become seizure-free within a few years with treatment.

Seizures can occur when you are awake or asleep. Sometimes they can be triggered by something, e.g. B. if you feel very tired.

Some seizures cause the body to jerk and tremble (a “seizure”), while others cause problems such as loss of consciousness or unusual sensations. They usually pass in a few seconds or minutes.

Seizures can affect people in different ways, depending on which part of the brain is affected.

The main symptom of epilepsy is repeated seizures. These are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain that temporarily affect how it works.

types of seizures

Simple partial (focal) seizures or “auras”

A simple partial seizure can cause:

a general strange feeling that is difficult to describe

a “rising” feeling in your stomach – like the feeling in your stomach on an amusement ride

a feeling that things have happened before (déjà vu)

unusual smells or tastes

Tingling in arms and legs

an intense feeling of fear or joy

Stiffness or twitching in a part of your body, such as B. an arm or a hand

You remain awake and aware while this is happening.

These seizures are sometimes called “alerts” or “auras” because they can be a sign that another type of seizure is about to happen.

Complex partial (focal) seizures

During a complex partial seizure, you lose consciousness and do random body movements, such as:

smack your lips

Rub your hands

make random noises

move your arms around

tugging at clothes or fiddling with objects

chew or swallow

You won’t be able to answer anyone during the seizure and you won’t remember it.

Tonic-clonic seizures

A tonic-clonic seizure, formerly called a “grand mal,” is what most people think of as a typical epileptic seizure.

They occur in 2 phases – an initial “tonic” phase, followed shortly by a second “clonic” phase:

Tonic stage – you lose consciousness, your body becomes stiff and you may fall to the floor. You may have difficulty breathing

The seizure usually stops after a few minutes, but some last longer. Afterwards, you may have a headache or have trouble remembering what happened, and you may feel tired or confused.

absences

In an absence, formerly called “petit mal”, you lose awareness of your surroundings for a short time. They mainly affect children but can occur at any age.

During an absence seizure, a person may:

stare into emptiness

look like they’re “daydreaming”

her eyes flutter

make slight jerky movements of their body or limbs

The seizures usually only last up to 15 seconds and you won’t be able to remember them. They can occur several times a day.

myoclonic seizures

During a myoclonic seizure, part or all of your body suddenly twitches or jerks, as if you have received an electric shock. They often appear shortly after waking up.

Myoclonic seizures usually last only a fraction of a second, but sometimes several can occur within a short period of time. You usually stay awake during this time.

clonic seizures

Clonic seizures cause the body to shake and twitch like a tonic-clonic seizure, but you don’t get stiff at first.

They usually last a few minutes and you can lose consciousness.

Tonic seizures

Tonic seizures cause all of your muscles to suddenly become stiff, as in the first stage of a tonic-clonic seizure.

This can mean losing your balance and falling over.

Atonic seizures

Atonic seizures cause all of your muscles to suddenly relax, possibly causing you to fall to the floor.

They are usually very short and you can usually get up straight away.

Status epilepticus

Status epilepticus is the term for any seizure that lasts a long time, or a series of seizures in which the person does not regain consciousness in between.

It is a medical emergency and needs to be treated as soon as possible.

You can be trained in treatment if you are caring for someone with epilepsy. If you haven’t had a workout, call 999 for an ambulance right away if anyone has a seizure that hasn’t stopped after 5 minutes.

Some people are aware of the onset of a seizure, possibly hours or days before it occurs. On the other hand, some people may not be aware of the beginning and therefore have no warning.

prodrome:

Some people may experience feelings, sensations, or behavior changes hours or days before an attack. These feelings are not generally part of the seizure but can warn a person that a seizure may be coming. Not everyone has these signs, but if they do, the signs can help a person modify their activity level, make sure they take their medication, use emergency treatment, and take steps to avoid injury.

Aura:

An aura or warning is the first symptom of a seizure and is considered part of the seizure. Often the aura is an indescribable feeling. In other cases, it’s easy to spot and can be a change in feeling, sensation, thinking, or behavior that’s similar to each seizure.

The aura can also occur alone and can be described as a conscious seizure with focal onset, a simple partial seizure, or a partial seizure with no change in consciousness.

An aura can occur before a consciousness or consciousness change.

Yet many people have no aura or warning; The seizure begins with a loss of consciousness or consciousness.

Common symptoms before an attack:

Consciousness, sensory, emotional, or thought changes:

Déjà vu (a feeling that a person, place, or thing is familiar but has never been experienced before)

Jamais vu (feeling that a person, place or thing is new or unfamiliar but is not)

smells

Sounds

Tastes

Visual loss or blurring

“Strange feelings

Anxiety/panic (often negative or scary feelings)

pleasant feelings

Racing thoughts

Physical changes:

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is cut off. A seizure occurs when the brain experiences an increase in electrical activity.

Think of it like this for easy reference. Stroke: blood. Confiscation: electricity.

Both involve disruption of normal brain activity and present as attacks. They can be mild or severe, and both have a range of well-known symptoms. Confusion and loss of muscle control are signs of a seizure. The problem is that they can also be signs of a stroke.

How can we tell them apart? The neurologists Dr. Lisa Bateman and Dr. Shlee Song offer advice that could save lives.