Seizure

About Seizures

• Most seizures are caused by chemical disturbances and a subtle short circuit in the portion of the brain near the temple.
• Other causes of seizures include tumors, old strokes or hemorrhages, infection, drugs, electrolyte disturbances and hypoglycemia.

Normal EEG

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seizure EEG

 

 

 

 

Symptoms

• A seizure is a sudden electrical discharge in the brain that can cause a person to suddenly stop and stare, jerk or have a major convulsion.

Diagnosis

• An electroencephalogram (EEG), a graphic record of electrical activity in the brain, can demonstrate the character of the seizure.

Treatment

• Seizures are usually treated with medication such as Dilantin, Tegretol, Neurontin, Depakote, Phenobarbital, Topiramate, Lamictal and others.
• The UCLA Epilepsy Program offers surgical treatment options.
• Patients with many seizures in a row who do not wake up need intensive care treatment with continuous electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring.

The Neuro-ICU cares for patients with all types of neurosurgical and neurological injuries, including stroke, brain hemorrhage, trauma and tumors. We work in close cooperation with your surgeon or medical doctor with whom you have had initial contact. Together with the surgeon or medical doctor, the Neuro-ICU attending physician and team members direct your family member's care while in the ICU. The Neuro-ICU team consists of the bedside nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians in specialty training (Fellows) and attending physicians. UCLA Neuro ICU Family Guide