Seizures Flashcards
what is a seizure defined as?
abnormal neurone firing within the cortex
what is generalised seizure? name the 6 types
entire brain is involved and pt is unconscious. tonic clonic, absence, clonic, tonic, myoclonic and atonic
what is a tonic clonic?
starts with a cry then rhythmic contraction and relaxation of entire body. no breathing
what is an absence? and what age group is most likely
no contraction but appears pt is daydreaming but unconscious (usually in children)
what is a clonic?
rhythmic contraction
what is a tonic?
prolonged contraction
what is a myoclonic?
single or small group of muscle contraction
what is an atonic?
lose all ability to contract muscles
What is a focal seizure? and what are the 4 types
pt is conscious and only effects part of the brain. Motor, sensory, autonomic and higher level
what is a motor seizure?
occurs in frontal lobe, hand and face movement
what is a sensory seizure?
depends on location, tingling (parietal), hallucinations(occipital) or mood or auditory changes (temporal)
what is an autonomic seizure?
parasympathetic response- salivation and increased digestion
sympathy- hr changes and pupil dilation
what is the management of a generalised seizure?
ABCDE, gain hx, treat with benzos and admit if anything out of ordinary for pt
what specific hx to ascertain?
duration, diagnosis, cluster?, medication given, pre-seizure symptoms, pregnant and if anything different
how do Benzos work?
cause hyperpolarsiation so increase the resting sate of calcium channel causing less nerve impulses
