Fits - Understanding and Managing by Dr. Sachin Mangla

Fits, commonly known as seizures, are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They can cause changes in your behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Seizures can vary widely, from brief lapses in attention or muscle jerks to severe and prolonged convulsions.

Types of Seizures:
1) Generalized Seizures: Affect both sides of the brain.

• Tonic-Clonic (Grand Mal): Characterized by a combination of muscle stiffness, jerking, and loss of consciousness.
• Absence (Petit Mal): Brief lapses in consciousness, often mistaken for daydreaming.
• Myoclonic: Sudden, brief jerks or twitches of the muscles.
• Atonic: Sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to collapse.
• Tonic: Muscle stiffness without jerking movements.
• Clonic: Repeated jerking movements.

2) Focal Seizures: Originate in one part of the brain.

• Simple Focal: Affect a small part of the brain, causing twitching or changes in sensation.
• Complex Focal: Can cause confusion, or affect consciousness and awareness.
• Secondary Generalized: Begin in one part of the brain and spread to both sides.

Causes of Fits:

• Genetic Factors: Family history can play a role.
• Brain Conditions: Tumors, strokes, or previous brain injuries.
• Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis, or AIDS.
• Prenatal Injuries: Developmental issues before birth.
• Developmental Disorders: Conditions like autism.

Symptoms to Watch For:

1. Temporary confusion
2. Staring spells
3. Uncontrollable jerking movements
4. Loss of consciousness or awareness
5. Psychic symptoms (fear, anxiety)

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Diagnosis: Often involves a combination of neurological exams, blood tests, EEG (electroencephalogram), and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans.
• Treatment: Can include medication, surgery, dietary changes, or neurostimulation. Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are commonly prescribed to control seizures.

First Aid for Seizures:

1. Stay Calm: Keep yourself composed to help the person effectively.
2. Protect from Injury: Move any dangerous objects away.
3. Time the Seizure: If it lasts more than 5 minutes, seek emergency help.
4. Stay with the Person: Until they are fully alert and aware.
5. Avoid Restraining: Do not try to hold them down.
6. Do Not Put Anything in the Mouth: This can cause injury.

Managing fits effectively involves understanding the condition, recognizing triggers and symptoms, and adhering to a tailored treatment plan. With the right support and medical care, individuals with seizures can lead fulfilling lives.

For more personalized advice and treatment options, visit Dr. Sachin Mangla at The Brain Blossom Clinic, Faridabad.

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