A seizure is an uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain that can cause changes in attitude, levels of consciousness, movements, or feelings. Multiple seizures within a day can also lead to epilepsy; the difference lies in the seizure’s starting point. They typically last from 30 seconds to two minutes. It can be an emergency if it lasts more than five minutes. A seizure can occur after a stroke, an infection, or a closed head injury.

Signs and symptoms of seizures
The signs and symptoms of a seizure can vary from mild to severe and also depend upon the type of the seizure. Some of the common signs are-

A staring spell
Temporary confusion in the brain
Loss of awareness or consciousness
Uncontrollable jerking movements of the legs and arms
Emotional or cognitive symptoms such as anxiety, fear, or déjà vu

Depending upon where the abnormal brain activity begins, seizures can be classified as either generalized or focal. Focal seizures begin from abnormal electrical activity in one area of the brain. They can come with impaired awareness or without loss of consciousness. You might sometimes confuse a focal seizure with other neurological disorders, such as migraine, mental illness, or narcolepsy. The other form of seizure is a generalized one. They appear in all areas of the brain. Absence seizures, atonic seizures, tonic seizures, myoclonic seizures, clonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures are the various types of generalized seizures.

Common causes of seizures
The nerve cells in your brain create, receive, and send electrical signals to communicate. When there is any disruption in the communication pathways, it can lead to a seizure. Sometimes seizure disorders could also be caused by genetic mutations. The most common cause of a seizure is epilepsy. But this doesn’t prove the fact that a person who has a seizure also has epilepsy. Though the exact cause of seizures is not known, factors that could result in the occurrence of a seizure are-

Fever
Perinatal disorders
Congenital problems and conditions
Genetic factors
Metabolic or chemical imbalances
Infection
Genetic factors
Brain tumors
Lack of sleep
Flashing lights, visual stimulants, or moving patterns
Hyponatremia, also called low blood sodium
Head trauma that causes bleeding in the brain
Misuse of abusive substances
Covid-19 virus infection
Withdrawal and other treatments
Neurological problems

Treatment options available for seizures
The treatment of a seizure depends upon the cause. If you understand the cause of the seizure, it may be possible to prevent future seizures from occurring. Here are some treatment options available for the condition:

Anti-epileptic treatments
People who experience multiple seizures are typically prescribed anti-epileptic treatments as their first option. These target the activities in the brain cells and can effectively control seizures. You can work out with your doctor to figure out the best option for treating your condition.

Nerve stimulation
To treat extreme seizures or epilepsy, surgeons insert nerve stimulation devices into the body. They sometimes place electrodes around the neck and a generator in the upper chest. Doctors can also suggest deep brain stimulation therapy in extreme cases.

Brain surgery
Such surgical options are considered when no other treatment option works. Some surgical procedures to treat epilepsy include corpus callosotomy, resective surgery, hemispherectomy, and multiple subpial transections. It is seen that brain surgery can improve the quality of life, but since it can be a risky affair, you need to check with your doctor first before making a final decision.

Changes in meal plans
This is one of the most vital things you can do in case you are suffering from seizures. The right changes in meal plans can reduce seizure frequency in the long term and help manage epilepsy. But make sure you keep your doctor in the loop to understand what food items work best for you.

Seizures are mainly related to brain cell malfunction. If you are with someone who is having a seizure, you should make sure that the person can breathe. You need to understand that seizures are not an uncommon neurological condition. They just need to be understood and treated. People with frequent seizure attacks can also live a normal life with proper treatment. It is vital to consult the doctor before making any drastic lifestyle or meal plan changes. This will ensure that none of these are interfering with ongoing treatment.

In addition to remedial measures, people with seizures can also join support groups for the same. These help them feel less lonely and isolated, as they come into contact with other individuals going through similar problems and can share perspectives.