A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. This unusual activity temporarily changes the way a person behaves, moves, or becomes aware of their surroundings. Seizures can be mild or severe and may last from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Not all seizures look the same. Some cause shaking, while others may involve staring, confusion, or brief loss of awareness. Understanding what a seizure is can help people respond calmly and responsibly when they see one.
How the Brain Normally Works
The brain sends signals through billions of nerve cells. These signals help control movement, speech, sight, memory, and every body function. Normally, these signals are well-organized. During a seizure, these signals suddenly become disorganized and overly active, leading to temporary changes in normal brain function.
What Happens During a Seizure?
During a seizure, the brain’s electrical system becomes overloaded for a short time. Depending on which part of the brain is affected, a person may show different signs such as:
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Jerking or stiff movements
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Staring into space
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Sudden confusion
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Unusual sensations
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Loss of awareness
After a seizure, the person may feel tired, confused, or need to rest for a while.
Types of Seizures
1. Focal Seizures
Focal seizures begin in one specific area of the brain.
They can cause:
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Jerking of one part of the body
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Sudden emotions or sensations
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Brief confusion
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Trouble speaking
Awareness may or may not be affected.
2. Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain at the same time.
These may cause:
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Full-body shaking
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Loss of consciousness
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Sudden stiffening
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Rapid blinking or staring
This type is more noticeable and may require immediate attention.
Common Causes of Seizures
Seizures may occur due to:
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Epilepsy (a condition where seizures occur repeatedly)
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High fever, especially in young children
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Head injury
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Low blood sugar
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Lack of sleep
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Certain infections
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Reaction to medicines
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Stroke
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Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
Sometimes, the exact cause cannot be identified.
Are All Seizures Epilepsy?
No. A single seizure does not mean a person has epilepsy. Epilepsy is diagnosed only when someone has repeated, unprovoked seizures. Many people have one seizure in their life without ever developing epilepsy.
Signs Someone May Be Having a Seizure
Signs can vary from mild to obvious, such as:
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Sudden staring or unresponsiveness
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Rapid blinking
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Repeated jerking movements
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Sudden collapse
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Loss of control of movements
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Unusual sounds or behaviors
These signs usually last a short time.
What to Do If Someone Has a Seizure
Safe and calm actions can help protect the person:
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Keep them away from sharp or hard objects
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Help them lie down safely
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Loosen tight clothing around the neck
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Turn them gently to one side
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Stay with them until the seizure ends
Do not hold them down or put anything in their mouth.
Seek medical help if:
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The seizure lasts more than five minutes
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It is their first seizure
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They have trouble breathing afterward
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They get injured during the episode
Recovery After a Seizure
After a seizure, a person may feel tired, confused, or need a short rest. This recovery phase is normal and can last a few minutes to several hours depending on the type of seizure.
Final Thoughts
A seizure is a temporary disruption of normal brain activity. It can look different from person to person and may have many causes. Understanding seizures helps reduce fear, improve response and support the person experiencing one. With proper awareness and timely medical guidance, seizures can be managed effectively.
