Category Archive

Seizures in Youth & Adults

Startle Epilepsy

August 8, 2011

Startle epilepsy is a type of reflex epilepsy in which seizures are provoked by loud noises or sudden surprises. Most patients with startle epilepsy are only sensitive to one sensory modality (i.e. temperature, taste, sound, pressure). However, it is the unexpected nature of the stimulus rather than the sensory modality that characterizes startle epilepsy. Patients…

Simple Partial Seizures

August 8, 2011

(Focal Cortical Seizures) Simple partial seizures result from epileptic activity localized in one part of the brain, usually the cortex or limbic system. Consciousness is not impaired. Someone experiencing a simple partial seizure can talk and answer questions. S/he will remember what happened during the seizure. Simple partial seizures take different forms in different people.…

Secondarily Generalized Seizures

August 8, 2011

Secondarily generalized seizures are usually partial seizures evolving into generalized seizures, most often with tonic-clonic convulsions. The partial seizures, which were once limited to one hemisphere of the brain, progress to encompass the entire brain bilaterally. This causes a generalized seizure. The clinical nature of a secondarily generalized seizure usually does not differ from that…

Reflex Seizures

August 8, 2011

A reflex seizure occurs as a direct response to a particular stimulus or event. These seizures are experienced by approximately 6 per cent of people with epilepsy. They can be triggered by visual stimulation, a sudden “startle,” or a variety of other factors alone or in combination. If a patient only has seizures as a…