Focal seizures affect a small area of the brain, while generalized seizures affect the entire brain. Also called partial seizures, focal seizures are classified as either simple or complex, depending on whether or not a person is conscious during the episode. A seizure can happen unexpectedly to anyone, though it is most common in people who suffer from congenital epilepsy, recent head trauma, or strokes. Some symptoms of focal seizures include uncontrollable facial movements, abnormal tingling or numbing sensations, or muscle twitches.
A simple partial seizure is one during which the person remains aware of what is happening. Mixed-up electrical signals in a limited area of the brain cause muscle spasms on one or both sides of the body, strange facial movements or tics, numbness, and blurry vision. An individual might start to feel nauseated, dizzy, and confused. Episodes can further lead to hallucinations, increased heart rate, changes in smell or hearing, and speaking difficulties.
Complex focal seizures involve a lapse in consciousness and memory during or after an episode. An individual may lose consciousness during a seizure, and be unable to recall exactly what happened. In most cases, a complex partial seizure follows a simple seizure. An episode can happen while sleeping or while awake, and many people report that their seizures generate feelings of déjà vu. Both simple and complex seizures can last anywhere from just a few seconds to around five minutes.
It is possible for people to experience only one simple or complex focal seizure in their lifetimes, without any warning or understood medical reason. Individuals who have congenital epilepsy, head injuries, strokes, or brain tumors suffer from multiple partial seizures over time. Bacterial and viral infections can also lead to seizures, and people with meningitis and encephalitis are at an especially high risk of epileptic attacks. Short- or long-term drug and alcohol abuse affects chemicals and electrical signals in the brain, which can sometimes cause partial seizures.
Medical evaluation and treatment is very important after a person experiences a focal seizure. A doctor usually conducts an electroencephalogram (EEG) test to check for abnormal electrical activity in the brain. During the EEG test, specialists attach several small electrodes to the scalp to record electrical signals and represent accurate readings on a computer screen. EEG results, along with other medical imaging scans and blood tests, can help doctors determine the cause of seizures along with the best ways to prevent future episodes.
Many people are prescribed medication to help control and prevent their epilepsy. Infections are usually treated with antibiotics, and brain tumors may need to be surgically removed. In addition, anyone can help to preserve brain health and lessen the risk of seizures by abstaining from drugs, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and maintaining a good diet.