Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a condition in which repeated periods of electrical activity in the brain cause a variety of symptoms beyond the patient’s control. The effects can depend on which part of the brain is experiencing this activity, but the most common manifestation is the epileptic seizure, convulsions, twitching and often a period of unconsciousness.

Epilepsy is divided into idiopathic epilepsy, where no cause can be found, and acquired epilepsy, in which the cause can be identified. Idiopathic epilepsy is often hereditary, with the relatives of people with epilepsy between five and 10 times more likely to suffer. When epilepsy is first discovered in younger people it is usually of this type. Acquired epilepsy may point to a more serious brain disorder, such as a tumour. It may also develop as a result of severe head injury, arteriosclerosis and even acute poisoning.

There are several types of epileptic attack. The one most familiar to most people is a general tonic-clonic seizure (previously known as a “grand mal”). These attacks rarely last longer than a couple of minutes and follow a set pattern, with the patient first experiencing a generalised tensing of muscles.

The next stage involves the rapid contraction of the muscles, which can cause the patient to fall, often causing other injuries. During the next phase the legs and arms jerk uncontrollably The jaw will be clamped shut and the patient may bite his or her tongue. The severe muscle contractions during the seizure can significantly interfere with breathing. When this stage has passed the patient is likely to be very drowsy and will probably fall asleep.

Partial seizure is a type of epilepsy caused by electrical abnormality in one part of the brain, which does not spread. Depending on which area of the brain is suffering, the symptoms can be spasms of the face or arm, or head jerks or twitching around the mouth. Most commonly these seizures are characterized by brief periods of confusion for which the patient has little or no recollection. This is the most common type of seizure affecting adults.

When epileptic seizures follow in close succession, severe damage to the brain can occur. This condition is known as status epilepticus, a medical emergency which requires immediate emergency hospital treatment.

Absence seizure, previously known as “petit mal” is a form of generalized epilepsy found almost exclusively in children. The patient can lose all touch with the world for a few seconds but is unlikely to fall over or show outward signs associated with epilepsy. For this reason, these fits can pass unnoticed, but repeated fits can leave a child forgetful or inattentive.