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A seizure happens when there are certain types of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. When two or more seizures occur, it is considered a seizure disorder (epilepsy). While there are many different types of seizures, the main categories are:

• Generalized seizure—onset is throughout the brain (both hemispheres)
• Partial seizure (focal seizure)—begins within certain areas of the brain

Generalized Seizure

Abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain.

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Seizure disorder is caused by abnormal brain function. While it is often difficult to identify the exact cause, factors include:

• Genetic disorder
• Brain infection, trauma , tumor ; bleeding into the brain; or other brain damage

Risk factors for developing seizure disorder include:

• Premature birth or low birth weight
• Damage to brain during birth
• Abnormal brain structure
• Traumatic brain injury
• Brain infection
• Brain tumor
• Seizure soon after birth (in first month)
• Family history of seizure disorder
• Cysticercosis (an infection caused by a pork tapeworm )

If your child already has a seizure disorder, these factors can increase the chance of having a seizure:

• Sleep deprivation
• Stress
• Hormonal changes (eg, during the menstrual cycle)
• Flashing lights (eg, strobe lights)
• Use of certain medicines or drugs
• Missing doses of anti-seizure medicines

There are many kinds of seizure disorders with a variety of symptoms like:

• Aura—a sensation at the start of a seizure (eg, perception of an odd smell or sound, spots appearing in front of the eyes, or stomach sensations)
• Staring, eye blinking, or eye rolling
• Loss of consciousness
• Repeated jerking of a single limb
• Uncontrollable jerking of muscles
• Hand rubbing, lip smacking, or picking at clothing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Drowsiness or confusion after a seizure

The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history and do a physical exam. Tests may include:

• Blood tests
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)—uses sensors to evaluate electrical brain activity
• MRI scan —uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the brain
• CT scan —type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the head
• Lumbar puncture —test of the cerebrospinal fluid from the lower back
• Magnetoencephalography (MEG)—imaging device that measures the brain's magnetic fields

You will work with the doctor to choose a treatment plan that is right for your child. Options include:

There are no known ways to prevent every type of seizure disorder. You can take steps to prevent your child from brain injuries or conditions that could lead to seizures:

• Get prenatal care.
• Be sure that your child always wears a helmet when doing certain activities (eg, bike riding, skateboarding, playing contact sports).
• Have your child wear seat belts or sit in a car seat when riding in a car.
• Teach your child never to dive into water. To be safe, he should always go into the water feet first.