Definition

A seizure is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A seizure disorder is when 2 or more seizures happen. This is also known as epilepsy.

Generalized Seizure Abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain. Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Seizure disorder is caused by abnormal brain function. It can be hard to find the cause. Some things that may play a role are:

• Genetic disorders
• Brain abnormalities or harm, such as infection, trauma, tumor, or bleeding into the brain

Risk Factors

Things that may raise a child's risk are:

• Premature birth or low birth weight
• Damage to the brain during birth
• Abnormal brain structure
• Traumatic brain injury
• Brain infection
• Brain tumor
• History of seizures due to fevers
• Seizure within the first month after birth
• Family history of seizure disorder

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the type of disorder a child has. They may be:

• Aura—a feeling at the start of a seizure, such as an odd smell or sound or spots in front of the eyes
• Staring, eye blinking, or eye rolling
• Loss of consciousness
• Jerking of a limb
• Jerking of muscles
• Hand rubbing, lip smacking, or picking at clothing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Feeling very tired or confused after a seizure

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your child’s symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

An electroencephalogram (EEG) will be done to confirm the diagnosis. It looks at the electrical activity of the brain.

Images of the brain and structures around it may also be taken to confirm the diagnosis. This can be done with:

• MRI scan
• CT scan

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to control seizures and improve quality of life. Treatments choices are:

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent seizure disorder.