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| Standard Definition |
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Seizures are caused by hyperexcitable nerve cells in the brain (cerebral cortex) that fire abnormally. Recurrent seizures are considered to be epilepsy, however proper diagnosis is essential as there are many types of seizures. |
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| Underlying Disruption in Function |
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| Epilepsy may develop in childhood or adulthood, often with a trigger setting off the first episode. Many biochemical, hormonal, immune, nutritional, lifestyle and environmental factors may be involved in making these nerve cells react abnormally. |
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| Possible Causes, Triggers & Exacerbating Factors |
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- Central nervous system infection such as meningitis
- Brain tumours, stroke
- Drug toxicity or withdrawal (eg. alcohol or illicit drug use)
- Some medications
- Head trauma
- Electrolyte or metabolic abnormalities
- High fevers
- Heavy metal or chemical toxicity
- Low sugar and/or low calcium levels in the blood
- Essential fatty acid imbalances
- Tendency to blood clotting
- Hormonal imbalance
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| Common Signs & Symptoms |
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- Aura (before generalized seizures), including lethargy, depression, irritability, involuntary jerks of limbs, abdominal pains, pale complexion, headache, constipation, or diarrhoea
- Loss of consciousness or temporary lack of breathing
- Total body muscle spasms
- Bluish color of skin and mucous membranes
- Dilated pupils
- Bowel or bladder incontinence
- Increased pulse and blood pressure
- Increased saliva production and sweating
- Deep coma, post-seizure confusion, and deep sleep
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| Possible Additional Integrative Medicine Diagnostic Tests |
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(This is additional information that does not replace nor negate conventional diagnosis. Other tests may be useful depending on the individual circumstance.)
- Vitamin and Mineral assessment
- Heavy Metal and Toxicity assessment
- Hormonal testing
- Drug, Herb, Nutrient assessment
- Biochemical assessments
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