Definition:
A seizure is commonly understood to be the sudden onset of convulsions. Medically, however, the term refers to the abnormal discharge of electricity in the brain, which may lead to physical convulsions but also to loss of consciousness, thought disorders, minor tremors or a combination of symptoms. Seizures may be caused by epilepsy, high fever, head trauma, reactions to medications, and certain types of poisoning. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, in 70 percent of patients with epilepsy, no specific cause for the seizures can be found.
A seizure is commonly understood to be the sudden onset of convulsions. Medically, however, the term refers to the abnormal discharge of electricity in the brain, which may lead to physical convulsions but also to loss of consciousness, thought disorders, minor tremors or a combination of symptoms. Seizures may be caused by epilepsy, high fever, head trauma, reactions to medications, and certain types of poisoning. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, in 70 percent of patients with epilepsy, no specific cause for the seizures can be found.
Pronunciation: SEE-zhur
Common Misspellings: siezure
