What is a seizure

A seizure is a single event consisting of sudden involuntary movements or changes in behavior which could be caused by different mechanisms, including epilepsy.  Seizures could belong to two main groups: epileptic and non-epileptic seizures.

Epileptic seizure: it is a seizure caused by an increase in the level of electrical activity of the brain. It happens in persons with epilepsy.

Non-epileptic seizures: Seizures not related to epilepsy, however, may be very similar to epileptic seizures. They are divided into physiologic and psychological.

• Physiologic: they are seizures, but not caused by epilepsy.  Examples of seizures of this type include syncope, low sugar, low salt, intoxication with drugs among others. More detailed information about these types of seizures is provided in Chapter  (Diagnosing Epilepsy)

• Psychological: Psychological non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are seizures that resemble epileptic seizures, but they are caused by stress or other psychological conditions.  Some patients may suffer of both, epileptic and PNES seizures.