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Seizures
Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled changes in brain activity. This is often
described as having convulsions, spells and attacks. Epilepsy refers to
having seizures over time.
Signs of Seizures
Sometimes people feel a warning sign before the seizure. This may be a
funny feeling, a headache, vision change or a strange noise. The time
between the warning sign and the seizure varies.

During a seizure there may be:
• Uncontrollable body motions such as body stiffening, jerking or facial
twitching
• Staring spells
• Problems breathing
• Drooling
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Confusion

The person will be very tired and confused after the seizure. Try to write
down what happens during the seizure. Include the date, time, how long
it lasted, and exactly what happened.
Causes of Seizures
It is not always known why people have seizures. Causes may include:
• Head injury
• Pressure on the brain from a tumor, infection or bleeding
• High fevers
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• A problem you are born with
• Medicines
Your Care
Your doctor will try to find the cause of your seizures. Treatment may
include medicine or surgery. Most seizures can be managed with medicine.