Fits Flashcards
After how long does a fit continue for before it is required to call an ambulance?
If a fit lasts for more than 5 mins, an ambulance should be called.
What are the non-seizure events of fit-like episodes?
Syncope/Faints
Cardiac syncope
What are the possible causes of true seizures?
Febrile convulsions
Primary epilepsy
Secondary epilepsy: due to cerebral palsy, structural brain lesions or syndromes
Reflex anoxic seizures
Alcohol and drug intoxication or withdrawal
Head injuries (can also include non-accidental injuries, in the case of child abuse)
Infections: Meningitis or Encephalitis
Metabolic: Hypoglycaemia, Hyponatraemia or Hypocalcaemia
What is convulsive status epilepticus?
Convulsive status epilepticus is a convulsive seizure lasting for more than 5mins, or when convulsive seizures occur one after another with no recovery in between
What is the treatment given for those with convulsive status epilepticus?
Buccal Midazolam (Buccolam). Alternatively, rectal diazepam or IV lorazepam
What is the common post-ictal symptom?
Drowsiness
What is a common complain after the post-ictal period when the child comes around?
Headache
Irritability in young children
What must be checked in any children who have collapsed or are unconscious?
Blood sugar level
What is given if seizures continues for over 20 mins?
Phenytoin 18mg/kg
If Phenytoin is already taken by the patient, give phenobarbitone 20mg/kg over 10mins
What is SUDEP?
SUDEP stands for Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy
How can the risk of SUDEP be minimised?
By optimising seizure control and being aware of potential consequences of nocturnal seizures
What are breath holding spells? Describe the process.
Breath holding spells are characteristically precipitated by crying due to pain or temper. The child cries once or twice, stops breathing and becomes deeply cyanotic.
Transient loss of consciousness and convulsive jerks or stiffening of limbs may occur.
The child then goes limp, resumes breathing and is fully alert again.
When should MRI be done?
MRI is indicated in those:
- who develop epilepsy before age 2 years or in adulthood
- who have any suggestion of a focal onset on history examination or EEG
- in whom seizures continue despite 1st line medication
What are the key diagnostic features of breath-holding spells?
Breath-holding spells are typically preceded with crying and breath-holding. There is also no post-ictal phase.
How long does the whole episode of breath-holding spells lasts for?
Breath-holding spells typically lasts for less than 1 minute.