Seizures

What are seizures?

Seizures are unexpected, uncontrollable electrical abnormalities in the brain. Seizures affect behavior, awareness, body movement, and consciousness. 

The abnormal electrical brain activity that occurs during a seizure may last a few seconds or a few minutes. Seizures are common, affecting 1 out of every 10 people in the United States. 

Seizures may be a one-time incident related to an illness, head trauma, or infection. If you have two or more seizures less than 24 hours apart you have epilepsy, which is a chronic neurological condition. 

What is the classification of seizures?

Dr. Wechsler is a board-certified neurologist and fellowship-trained epileptologist. He classifies seizures into one of two types based on how and where the abnormal brain activity occurs. The classification of seizures include:

Partial-onset seizures

Partial-onset seizures, also known as focal seizures, are seizures that affect one area of the brain. These may be focal aware seizures or focal impaired Awareness seizures that cause impaired awareness.

Partial-onset seizures may evolve into general tonic-clonic seizures, which are seizures that affect movement. 

Primary generalized seizures

Primary generalized seizures involve all areas of the brain. There are several types of generalized seizures that cause varying symptoms. Types include absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, and atonic seizures.

How are seizures diagnosed?

Dr. Wechsler conducts a thorough neurological exam to diagnose seizures. During the exam he performs a number of tests to assess your behavior, mental function, and motor skills. These tests may help him determine your seizure classification.

Dr. Wechsler reviews your medical and family history and performs an electroencephalogram (EEG), which is a diagnostic test that measures electrical activity in the brain. 

How are seizures treated?

Treatment for seizures depends on the frequency of your seizure activity. For patients with only one known episode of seizure activity, Dr. Wechsler may not recommend any specific treatment. Instead, he may request routine follow-ups and EEGs to monitor brain activity. 

For epilepsy, Dr. Wechsler prescribes anti-seizure medication. Most people become seizure-free after starting medication. Dr. Wechsler works closely with you to provide the best care that meets your needs.

Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology PLLC also participate in clinical research and clinical trials, which may help those who struggle to find the right treatment to manage their seizures.

Call Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology PLLC or schedule an appointment online with the epilepsy specialist today.