SUDDEN ABNORMAL BRAIN ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY
Seizures
Sudden episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, causing convulsions, altered awareness or unusual sensations. Careful evaluation guides classification and long-term treatment under specialist care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What are Seizures
Seizures are sudden, brief episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on which area of the brain is involved. Features include convulsions with whole-body shaking and loss of consciousness (generalised seizures), brief episodes of altered awareness or staring (absence seizures), or focal symptoms such as twitching of one part of the body, unusual sensations, sudden fear or déjà vu (focal seizures). Causes include genetic predisposition, brain injury, stroke, infections, tumours, metabolic abnormalities, alcohol withdrawal and, often, no identifiable cause. A single seizure does not always mean epilepsy — epilepsy is diagnosed when there are recurrent unprovoked seizures. Evaluation includes detailed history, examination, blood tests, EEG and brain imaging. Treatment is highly individualised and includes anti-seizure medical therapy, identification and treatment of underlying causes, lifestyle measures and safety counselling. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with neurology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition and family history
- Previous brain injury, stroke or surgery
- Brain infections such as meningitis or encephalitis
- Brain tumours
- Metabolic abnormalities such as low sodium or low blood sugar
- Alcohol withdrawal or drug intoxication
- Often no identifiable cause is found
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Detailed history, examination, blood tests, EEG and brain imaging
Generalised · Focal · Absence · Status epilepticus
Anti-seizure medical therapy and treatment of underlying causes
Neurology co-management is essential
Driving, swimming and certain activities may need restrictions
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with neurology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Anti-Seizure Therapy with Specialist Care
The most effective approach is accurate classification of seizure type and identification of any underlying cause through evaluation including EEG and brain imaging, followed by targeted anti-seizure medical therapy under neurology co-management, along with safety counselling.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the seizure events with the patient and witnesses, examines the patient and arranges blood tests, EEG and brain imaging.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with neurology, including anti-seizure therapy when needed and treatment of any underlying cause.
- 3
Medical Management
Anti-seizure medical therapy tailored to seizure type, identification and management of triggers and underlying causes, and safety counselling.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with neurology to monitor seizure control, adjust therapy and address any side effects.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Anti-Seizure Medical Therapy
Specific medical therapy is chosen based on the seizure type, age, gender and any other medical conditions, with the goal of complete seizure control with minimal side effects.
Identification and Treatment of Triggers
Identifying and avoiding triggers such as sleep deprivation, alcohol, missed medications and stress significantly reduces seizure risk.
Treatment of Underlying Causes
Specific treatment is provided for any identified underlying cause — infections, brain tumours, metabolic abnormalities or others.
Safety Counselling and Lifestyle Advice
Detailed counselling on safety measures including driving restrictions, swimming, working at heights, and lifestyle adjustments based on local regulations.
Specialist Neurology Care (Referral for neurology)
Long-term care is co-managed with neurology, particularly for treatment adjustments, refractory cases and consideration of advanced therapies.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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