Seizures & Epilepsy Flashcards
What is the definition of patho for seizures?
Electrical activity that results from an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain.
What may result from the imbalance in electrical activity in the brain?
Alterations in consciousness, motor or sensory abilities, and behaviors.
What is epilepsy?
Two or more seizure events experienced by a person.
What type of disorder is epilepsy?
A chronic disorder with recurrent and unprovoked activity.
List some risk factors that can cause epilepsy.
- Genetics/family history
- Brain lesions
- Metabolic disorders
- Acute alcohol withdrawal
- Electrolyte disturbances
- High fevers
- Strokes
- Head injuries (TBI)
- Substance abuse
Where can epilepsy be found in the body or hospital?
Anywhere in the hospital; it originates in the brain but impacts the whole body.
What are some signs or symptoms of epilepsy?
You may experience an aura, loss of muscle tone, and various types of seizures, from almost unrecognizable to very noticeable.
What is an aura in relation to epilepsy?
A warning beforehand where you experience unusual sensations related to smell, taste, or vision.
What is the difference between simple and complex seizures?
Simple seizures do not impair consciousness, while complex seizures do.
What diagnostics can be used to determine the presence of epilepsy?
- Neurological exam
- EEGs
- CT
- MRI
- PET scan
- Health history
- Family history
- Blood tests to rule out imbalances
What complications can arise from epilepsy?
- Injuries from falls
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Permanent brain damage
- Harm to self or others
What is STATUS EPILEPTICUS?
Seizures lasting more than 5 minutes or repeated seizures.
What is the significance of STATUS EPILEPTICUS?
It is a medical emergency.
What are some treatment options for epilepsy?
- Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
- Precautions to minimize injuries
- Consistent medication adherence
- Consulting a neurologist before stopping medications
- Psychological support
- Ketogenic diet
What should patients be aware of regarding antiepileptic drugs?
Some drugs can interact with other medications or foods, and some may require lab tests regarding serum levels.
What surgical options are available for severe epilepsy cases?
- Vagal nerve stimulators
- Partial corpus callosotomy in very severe, uncontrolled cases
