What is generalized seizures?

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Generalized seizures are the seizures which result from abnormal neuronal activity involving the entire brain. These seizures may cause loss of consciousness, falls, or muscle movements and affect about 35% of people with epilepsy. Generalized seizures are further sub categorized into several types such as Tonic-Clonic Seizure, Clonic Seizure, Tonic Seizure, Absence Seizure, Atonic Seizure, Myoclonic Seizure, Atypical Absence Seizure. Sometimes generalized seizures can begin with a partial seizure and then spread in both cerebral hemispheres of the brain.

Sign and symptoms of generalized seizures

Patient may show different symptoms depending on the type of seizure. Commonly shown symptoms are as follows.

• Many patients experienced sensory warning sign which is called as Aura.
• Usually patient fall and loss of consciousness
• Body may become rigid, and stiffness and jerking movements of arms and legs.
• Sometimes breathing may become difficult or stop.
• Involuntarily passes urine and sometimes feces.
• Many patients may experience tiredness and confusion and headache.

Causes of generalized seizures

Abnormal electrical activity occurs in both sides of the brain is mainly responsible for generalized seizures. Brain injury, tumors, and brain lesions may be responsible to cause generalized seizures.

Diagnosis and Tests

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed axial tomography (CAT), and EEG tests are done to analyze in which part of the brain seizure occurred. Blood tests are used to recognize metabolic disorders or infections.

Treatment for generalized seizures

Treatment of generalized seizures may vary, depending on the cause and type of the seizure.

• Drugs- Anticonvulsants drugs such as phenytoin or phenobarbital are mostly used to stop seizure or reduce the chances of another seizure with little side effect. Diazepam (Valium) ,Lorazepam drugs are also useful. Pregnant women should take folate supplements along with anticonvulsants drugs to reduce the risk of having a baby with a birth defect.
• Surgery -If anticonvulsants drugs are ineffective or side effects are unbearable brain surgery is suggested. Removing defected part from the brain by surgery may reduce seizures up to 80% of people. A tube is placed to help breathing if it is abnormal which is called as intubation.
• Vagus nerve stimulation- A small device is placed inside skin which stimulates the vagus nerve through a series of small electric shocks. These shocks may helpful to reduce generalized seizures.