Seizures
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Midwest Neurology Associates, P.C.
Neurologist and Pain Management Specialist located in Dyer, IN
Seizures are common and may occur after a head injury, stroke, or infection. But with the right treatment, you can reduce your risk of seizure activity or prevent a recurrence. The neurology experts at Midwest Neurology Associates, P.C, in Dyer, Indiana, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of seizures in adults and children and can devise a treatment plan to stop seizure activity. Call the office, to book an appointment today.
Seizures Q & A
What are seizures?
A seizure refers to an abnormality in the electrical signaling in your brain. The electrical activity in your brain can alter your behavior, create uncontrolled movements or feelings, or cause you to lose consciousness. Seizures can last 30 seconds to two minutes.
If you have more than one seizure or recurrent seizures, then you have epilepsy, which is a neurological disorder associated with the abnormal brain activity.
What are the types of seizures?
Seizures are classified based on how much of your brain is affected by the abnormal electrical activity. The types of seizures are divided into two groups, which includes:
Focal seizures
With a focal seizure, the electrical activity is localized to one part of your brain. You may or may not lose consciousness with a focal seizure.
Generalized seizures
Generalized seizures involve all the areas of the brain. There are many types of generalized seizures, including tonic seizures, clonic seizures, and absence seizures.
Seizures can occur without any warning and may place you in harm’s way, leading to a fall or even a car accident.
How are seizures diagnosed?
Because of the types of symptoms seizures cause, they can usually be diagnosed by observation. However, when you come in to see the neurology team at Midwest Neurology Associates, you may undergo additional testing to determine the cause of your seizure and whether it may recur.
During your evaluation, the team reviews your medical history and symptoms and conducts a neurological exam. Diagnostic testing may also be conducted, such as electroencephalography (EEG) MRI, or CT scan. The team uses the information gathered during your evaluation to determine the best treatment options for managing your seizures.
What are the treatments for seizures?
If you’ve only had one seizure, the team at Midwest Neurology Associates may take a wait-and-see approach and only provide treatment if your continue to have seizures. The goal of treatment is to prevent seizure activity with as few side effects as possible.
Most people with epilepsy can control seizure activity with medication. If medication can’t control your seizure activity, the neurology experts may talk to you about vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). The VNS is a device that gets placed under the skin in your chest. The device sends a mild electrical signal along your vagus nerve, which helps stop seizure activity.
For an evaluation and treatment plan for your seizure activity from an experienced team, call Midwest Neurology Associates, to book an appointment today.
