seizuresand

Seizuresand is not a recognized medical term and may result from a typographical error. This article uses seizures as the focus and notes any ambiguity around the term.

Seizures are episodes of transient abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They are broadly categorized as focal (partial) seizures and generalized seizures. Focal seizures begin in a specific brain area and may be focal aware (conscious) or focal impaired awareness (consciousness altered). Generalized seizures involve both hemispheres and include tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic, and atonic types.

Causes include genetic factors, structural brain changes such as scars, stroke, tumors, infections, metabolic disturbances, withdrawal from alcohol or sedatives, and certain medications. Epilepsy refers to recurrent unprovoked seizures; a single seizure may occur without epilepsy.

Symptoms vary by type and may include convulsions, stiffening, loss of consciousness, staring spells, or brief lapses in awareness. First aid: move hazards away, cushion the head, time the event, and do not place objects in the mouth or restrain movements unnecessarily.

Diagnosis combines clinical history, neurological exam, electroencephalography (EEG), and brain imaging such as MRI. Treatments include antiseizure medications, lifestyle adjustments, and, for refractory cases, surgery or neurostimulation. With proper care, many people achieve seizure control; seek urgent care for seizures lasting longer than five minutes or after a head injury.