Known Causes of Seizures
What Causes Seizures?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.
It can cause changes in your behavior, movements, or feelings, and in levels of consciousness. Having two or more seizures at least 24 hours apart that aren’t brought on by an identifiable cause is generally considered to be epilepsy.
There are many types of seizures, which range in symptoms and severity. Seizure types vary by where in the brain they begin and how far they spread. Most seizures last from 30 seconds to two minutes. A seizure that lasts longer than five minutes is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
Seizures are more common than generally thought. Seizures can happen after a stroke, a traumatic head injury, an infection such as meningitis or another illness. Many times, though, the cause of a seizure is unknown.
Signs of a seizure may include:
- Temporary confusion
- A starring spell
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Cognitive or emotional symptoms such as fear or anxiety