Seizure- Symptoms & Causes

Seizure (Fit): What it is, Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Fits is a colloquial term often used to describe sudden, involuntary episodes of muscle activity or altered consciousness. They are usually linked to epilepsy, but not every fit is caused by this particular medical condition. Although fits often look alike, their causes can differ, so proper treatment and care may require attention to each situation.

Keep reading to know more about fits disease!

What is a seizure?

A seizure or fit is a surge of abnormal or sudden electrical activity in your brain. In addition, a temporary loss of consciousness and convulsions or uncontrollable movements are the most recognisable symptoms of fit disease. Not all seizure cases look the same. You might stop what you are doing stare off into space for a few seconds. There are lots of possible causes of seizures due to lots of things can interfere with the electrical pattern of your brain. These includes changes in your blood sugar levels to an illness, underlying medical condition or injury.

What are the Types of Fits?

Fits can be categorized based on their origin and presentation:

1. Febrile Seizures : These seizures usually occur in children between 6 months and 5 years, are often caused by high fevers and are harmless.
2. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) : PNES are often referred to as functional seizures, and like epilepsy, they produce seizure symptoms but without the electrical discharges seen in the brain. They are often associated with psychological factors such as stress or trauma.
3. Metabolic Seizures : If metabolic issues such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyponatremia (low sodium levels) are the cause, the seizures go away when those conditions are corrected.
4. Provoked Seizures : These arise when someone experiences alcohol withdrawal, becomes intoxicated by drugs, or suffers from an acute head injury.

How common is a Seizure?

Around 10% of people across the world will have at least one seizure during their lifetimes.

What are the Symptoms of Fits?

Fits, also known as seizures, can present with a variety of symptoms depending on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden, uncontrollable movements of the body, especially the arms and legs.
• Muscle stiffness followed by jerking movements.
• Loss of consciousness or confusion.
• Staring spells or frequent blinking.
• Sweating and changes in breathing patterns.
• Tongue biting or locking of teeth.
• Unexpected collapses resulting from a lack of muscle coordination.
• A feeling of fear occurring before the seizure.

What is the Difference Between Fits and Epilepsy?

The table below differentiates the key aspects of fits and epilepsy:

Note: A single fit does not necessarily indicate epilepsy. This medical condition is diagnosed when an individual experiences two or more unprovoked seizures.

What are the Causes of Fits?

Fits can result from various factors:

• Neurological Conditions: Brain tumors, meningitis, and head injuries that can cause brain damage.
• Metabolic Imbalances: Abnormal amounts of glucose, sodium, calcium, or magnesium.
• Infections: High fevers in children that are often linked to febrile seizures.
• Substance Withdrawal: Sudden stopping the consumption of alcohol or particular drugs.
• Psychological Factors: Trauma or high stress can be the root of PNES.

What are the Stages of Seizure?

Stages of seizure includes:

• Prodome phase: You may notice mood or behavioral changes, feel lightheaded or have trouble focusing before a seizure. Few days before a seizure, you may have trouble sleeping.
• Aura phase: You may notice vision changes, a headache, dizziness, nausea, anxiety or fear, and changes to your senses (like taste, sound, smell and feeling) right before the first symptoms of a seizure starts.
• Ictal phase: This stage indicates as when seizure happens. You’ll experience seizure symptoms.
• Postictal phase: You may feel exhausted, sore, confused, strong emotions and more immediately after a seizure ends.
   

Not everyone who has seizure experiences of all phases but especially the aura. Many of them come on sudden and even you are unaware of any early signs.

What are the Symptoms of Fits?

Fits, also known as seizures, can present with a variety of symptoms depending on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden, uncontrollable movements of the body, especially the arms and legs.
• Muscle stiffness followed by jerking movements.
• Loss of consciousness or confusion.
• Staring spells or frequent blinking.
• Sweating and changes in breathing patterns.
• Tongue biting or locking of teeth.
• Unexpected collapses resulting from a lack of muscle coordination.
• A feeling of fear occurring before the seizure.

What is the Diagnosis of Fits?

Diagnosing fits (seizures) typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests. Here are some common diagnostic approaches:

• Medical History & Symptoms: Doctors monitor a person's seizure frequency, duration, and possible causes.
• Neurological Examination: Assesses how the brain works, responds to reflexes, and controls coordination.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measureselectrical activity in the brain to spot abnormal behavior.
• Imaging Tests: An MRI or CT scan can help find structural problems, tumors, or injuries that could lead to seizures.
• Blood Tests: Tests for diseases and abnormalities in metabolism that may cause seizures.
• Genetic Testing: If epilepsy is thought to be heritably linked, genetic testing may be used.

What are the Treatment Options For Fits?

The treatment for fits depends on the underlying cause:

• Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): For recurrent seizures or diagnosed epilepsy.
• Addressing Metabolic Causes: Adjusting electrolytes or controlling blood sugar in the body.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a treatment option for PNES.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding things that trigger anxiety, getting enough sleep, and dealing with stress.
• Nerve Stimulation: Techniques such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)work to control brain functions.
• Surgery: If the seizures begin in a particular brain area, surgery might be an option.

How to Care and Manage Individuals With Fits?

Effective management of fits includes:

• Regular Monitoring: Visiting your healthcare provider on a regular schedule.
• Medication Adherence: Following the prescribed doses every day.
• Safety Precautions: Taking steps to lower the chance of an accident during an episode.
• Support Systems: Participating in support groups and seeking counselling services.

What are the Prevention Strategies For Fits?

Preventive measures for fits focus on mitigating risk factors:

• Infection Control: Prompt treatment of infections and good hygiene.
• Substance Moderation: Avoiding alcohol abuse and using illegal drugs.
• Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques and seeking psychological support.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Watching for underlying conditions that might cause seizures.

What is the Difference Between Fits and Epilepsy?

The table below differentiates the key aspects of fits and epilepsy:

Note: A single fit does not necessarily indicate epilepsy. This medical condition is diagnosed when an individual experiences two or more unprovoked seizures.

Does Health Insurance Offer Coverage for Fits?

Managing fits and their underlying causes can incur significant medical expenses. Health insurance covers costs associated with diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. For instance, Star Health Insurance offers plans encompassing neurological evaluations, hospitalizations, and therapies related to seizure disorders, ensuring comprehensive support for affected individuals.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of fits is essential for effective diagnosis and management. By recognizing the various types, causes, and treatment options, individuals and healthcare providers can collaborate to achieve optimal outcomes.

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