Loss of bowel or bladder control

The Basics of a Seizure A seizure is defined as the changes in behavior, occurring after abnormal electrical activity in the person’s brain. The term is used interchangeably with convulsion, though the two terms have different meanings. Convulsions are a condition where the person’s muscles relax and contract repeatedly. Seizures come in many forms and some happen with no shaking. Symptoms Some seizures are never recognized as such, because they only involve brief moments of lost time. Symptoms happen quickly and include: Blackout with memory loss or confusion Behavior changes such as pulling apart a tissue Frothing or drooling Change in eye movement Snorting or grunting Loss of bowel or bladder control Sudden mood changes Whole body shaking Falling Bitter or metallic taste in mouth Clenching teeth Temporary break in breathing Muscle spasms Causes Abnormal glucose or sodium in blood Brain infection Injury to the brain at birth Congenital brain defects Brain tumor Electric shock Fever Epilepsy Head injury Heat illness Heart disease Fever Phenylketonuria Street drugs Poisoning Toxemia in pregnancy Stroke High blood pressure Liver or kidney failure Drug withdrawal Bites from venomous animals Some seizures cannot be recognized because they happen internally, or they may be associated with another issue. The person may be confused, drool, or become angry. Loved ones may not understand that this is a seizure and not another issue. Understanding the underlying causes will help loved ones recognize a seizure. Vancouver Home Health Care Agency has a wealth of information concerning seizures, response to seizures, and care. At Vancouver Home Health Care Agency, Caring and Compassion is our business.