Seizure (Epilepsy) »
Introduction
Few experiences match the drama of a convulsive seizure. A person having a
severe seizure may cry out, fall to the floor unconscious, twitch or
move uncontrollably, drool, or even lose bladder control. Within minutes, the attack
is over, and the person regains consciousness but is exhausted and dazed. This
is the image most people have when they hear the word epilepsy. However, this
type of seizure -- a generalized tonic-clonic seizure -- is only one kind of
epilepsy. There are many other kinds, each with a different set of symptoms.
Epilepsy was one of the first brain disorders to be described. It was
mentioned in ancient Babylon more than 3,000 years ago. The strange behavior
caused by some seizures has contributed through the ages to many superstitions
and prejudices. The word epilepsy is derived from the Greek word for "attack."
People once thought that those with epilepsy were being visited by demons or
gods. However, in 400...
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