Understanding the various types of seizures: a call for awareness during National Epilepsy Week

As National Epilepsy Week unfolds from February 10 to 16, it provides an opportunity to increase public awareness regarding the myriad seizures associated with epilepsy. The campaign aims to educate communities about the diverse manifestations of seizures, emphasising the critical nature of early recognition and prompt response for ensuring safety and appropriate treatment.

Health cover provider Affinity Health sys epilepsy is a condition that impacts millions across the globe. Yet, the unpredictable nature of seizures means they often go unrecognised. Many people mistakenly believe that all seizures involve shaking or loss of consciousness, leading to significant misconceptions. In reality, seizures can be incredibly subtle, sometimes lasting mere seconds and going unnoticed altogether.

What is a seizure?

A seizure is defined as an episode characterised by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can alter an individual’s movement, awareness, behaviour, sensations, or emotions. Importantly, experiencing a seizure does not necessarily imply a diagnosis of epilepsy. Factors such as fever, infections, head injuries, or reactions to certain medications can also trigger seizures. Recurring seizures, however, often indicate epilepsy — a condition that warrants further medical evaluation.

The two main categories of seizures

Seizures can be broadly classified into two categories: focal and generalised seizures. Understanding these distinctions is vital for providing appropriate support during an episode.

• Focal (Partial) Seizures: These seizures originate in one specific area of the brain. Individuals may remain aware or experience impaired awareness. Common signs include:
• Unusual sensations or smells
• Sudden emotional changes
• Jerking movements in a single limb
• Staring or confusion
• Repetitive behaviours, such as lip-smacking
• Generalised Seizures: These affect both sides of the brain and commonly exhibit more evident physical symptoms. Types include:
• Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Previously termed “grand mal” seizures, these lead to muscle stiffening followed by jerking, causing a loss of consciousness.
• Absence Seizures: Often seen in children, these result in brief staring spells, lasting just a few seconds.
• Myoclonic Seizures: Characterised by sudden, quick muscle jerks resembling brief twitches.
• Atonic Seizures: Also known as “drop attacks,” these can cause sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to falls.
• Tonic Seizures: These involve a sudden stiffening of muscles, potentially causing falls if the person is standing.

Each seizure type presents unique challenges, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.

Why understanding seizure types matters

Educating oneself about the various seizure types enhances the ability to:

• Respond safely during an episode
• Recognise when emergency assistance is necessary
• Identify early warning signs
• Provide support to loved ones living with epilepsy
• Mitigate the stigma and misunderstandings surrounding epilepsy in communities

When to call for emergency help

It’s crucial to seek urgent medical assistance under specific circumstances: if a seizure lasts more than five minutes, recurs without recovery, results in injury, is the first seizure experienced, occurs during pregnancy, or is followed by breathing difficulties. Prompt medical attention can prevent severe complications and, in many cases, save lives.

Common triggers

Understanding that seizure triggers can vary tremendously between individuals is fundamental for those living with epilepsy. Common triggers include sleep deprivation, heightened stress, flashing lights, fever or illness, missing medication, and substance use. Managing these triggers can significantly improve seizure control.

How seizures are diagnosed

A thorough diagnosis of seizure types and possible epilepsy may involve an examination of medical history, neurological assessments, EEG tests, and brain imaging. This comprehensive approach directs healthcare providers towards the most suitable treatment options and potential lifestyle modifications.

Conclusion

As we observe National Epilepsy Week, it’s essential to acknowledge that seizures can take on vastly different forms. A deeper understanding of these differences can significantly alter community responses, allowing for better support and care for those living with epilepsy. 

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