Epilepsy

Seizures

Seizures are temporary interruptions in awareness, movement or sensation, caused by abnormal activity in the brain.

Occur when the "electrical storm" spreads to all regions of the brain
Cause various changes in consciousness
- Some individuals develop a blank stare
- Others may go into tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures that result in complete loss of consciousness with convulsions.
After the seizure, the person has no recollection of the event. He or she may seem dazed, tired, weak or confused.

Occur when there is a disturbance in just one part of the brain, affecting physical or mental activity controlled by that area
Do not result in loss of consciousness
May cause uncontrolled shaking of an arm, leg or other body part
Emotions may be altered.
There may be changes in the way things look, smell, feel, taste or sound.
There may be speech disturbances.

Call for medical help immediately (911)
Gently roll the person onto one side and put something under his/her head
Loosen tight neckwear
Don’t try to put your fingers or any object in the person’s mouth (the tongue cannot be swallowed during the seizure)
Don’t try to restrain the person
Look for a medic alert bracelet that states emergency contact and medications
After the seizure, roll the person gently on their side to allow for easier unobstructed breathing