What Happens During a Seizure?

There are many different types of seizures. Some are common, while others are less common. It is very important to describe a patient's seizure symptoms in detail so that physicians can prescribe the appropriate anti-seizure medications and provide suitable recommendations based on the patient's medical condition and lifestyle.

Among the various types of epilepsy, the most common are generalized tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal seizures), complex focal seizures (formerly called complex partial seizures), and absence seizures (formerly known as petit mal seizures). During these seizures, patients may experience a period of impaired consciousness or loss of awareness. In some cases, consciousness is completely lost, while in others it is only partially affected. Appropriate assistance during a seizure can be very beneficial to the patient.

It is important to remember that once a seizure begins, it generally cannot be stopped. Giving medication during the seizure will not help. The seizure must be allowed to run its course and end on its own. The most important reason for providing assistance is to prevent injury. If a person experiencing a generalized tonic-clonic seizure lets out a loud cry, there is usually no need for concern. The sound is not a sign of pain; rather, it is caused by the rapid expulsion of air from the lungs.

Above all, remain calm. After the seizure has ended, the patient will most need reassurance and comfort. In most cases, no emergency medical treatment is required. However, immediate medical attention should be sought if:

• Seizures occur repeatedly without the person regaining consciousness between episodes;
• The person remains unconscious after the seizure; or
• A generalized tonic-clonic seizure lasts longer than 5–10 minutes.

In these situations, the patient should be taken to a hospital as soon as possible.

Source: Taiwan Epilepsy Society https://www.epilepsy.org.tw/knowledge