b'Epilepsy / SeizuresChapter hapterEpilepsy is a disorder of brain function that takes the form of recurring seizures.Our every thought, feeling, emotion or action is controlled by brain cells that communicate with each other through regular electrical impulses. A seizure occurs when sudden bursts of electrical activity disrupt this pattern. Communication between cells becomes scrambled and our thoughts, feelings or movements become momentarily confused or uncontrolled.While seizures can be frightening, in most instances they subside without intervention. Once the seizure is over, the patient gradually regains control and re-orients themselves without any ill effects. The majority of people diagnosed with epilepsy will have their seizures controlled with medication. Epilepsy is a symptom, not a disease and not all seizures are epilepsy. If a person has recurrent seizures, epilepsy may be diagnosed and medications prescribed to control them.Types of seizuresWhile seizures are very complex they generally fall into two categories: partial or generalised. Partial seizures start in one part of the brain and affect that part of the body controlled by that part of the brain. Generalised seizures involve the whole brain and therefore involve the whole body.Tonic-Clonic Seizure (Convulsive)This is where the disturbance involves the entire brain resulting in unconsciousness and in a dramatic generalised motor seizure. The body becomes quite stiff (tonic) shortly followed by jerking of the muscles (clonic). Breathing is shallow or temporarily suspended causing lips and the complexion to look grey/blue (cyanosis). Saliva (sometimes also blood if the tongue has been bitten) may come out of the mouth and there may be loss of bladder control.Absence Seizure (Non Convulsive)This type of disturbance involves the entire brain and mostly affects children. The patient generally stops and stares for about 2 to 20 seconds and the eyes roll upwards or flicker. This is normally followed by quick recovery and little recollection of the incident, often mistaken for daydreaming, intoxication or lack of concentration.Complex Partial Seizure (Non Convulsive)This involves a small area of the brain. The patient may suddenly become vague and not respond well to other people. They may not be aware of their surroundings and exhibit unusual behaviour such as rapid fiddling with clothing, chewing movements or start to wander around aimlessly. The seizure normally lasts for one to two minutes but the patient may remain confused and drowsy for many minutes to several hours afterwards.Medical Emergencies 203'