WHAT ARE SEIZURES?
A seizure, or convulsion, can be a sudden, violent, uncontrollable contraction of a group of muscles caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A seizure can also be more subtle, consisting of only a brief “loss of contact” (victim seems to be daydreaming) or a repetitive body movement. Epileptic seizures can be classified into two broad groups—generalized and partial. Generalized seizures affect the whole body, causing a loss of consciousness, and may arise over a wide area of the brain. Partial seizures, during which consciousness may be retained, are usually caused by damage to a more limited area of the brain. Seizures can be treated with anticonvulsant medications or surgery.
