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What are Simple Partial Seizures?

Nat Robinson
Nat Robinson

Simple partial seizures are anomalies in the brain caused by abnormal electrical brain activity. Seizures, sometimes called convulsions, can change behavior patterns in a number of ways. If an individual has repeated episodes of spontaneous seizures, he or she may have epilepsy. In this type of case, the individual may be classified as having epilepsy simple partial seizures. The symptoms of a person with these kinds of seizures can change each time he or she suffers the disturbance.

Unlike many kinds of seizures, simple partial seizures only affect one specific part of the brain. For this reason, these types of seizures generally belong in the category of epilepsy known as focal or partial epilepsy. The condition is named as such because the seizure originates from one focused portion of the brain. In many cases, a simple partial seizure is the only type of seizure a person may experience. At times though, the condition can progress to generalized seizures, in which the entire surface area of the brain becomes affected.

Studying a brain's electrical activity through an EEG test may help identify the underlying cause of a simple partial seizure.
Studying a brain's electrical activity through an EEG test may help identify the underlying cause of a simple partial seizure.

There can be different factors that lead to simple partial seizures. Sometimes a brain injury caused by an accident or a stroke can lead to the problem. Genetics can also be a factor, as some types of epilepsy appear to run in families, affecting several members. Seizures can also be caused by different health disorders. Commonly, individuals with dementia, brain tumors, low blood sugar, infections and different types of organ failure can have these brain disturbances as well.

Brain injuries are one reason a person may develop simple partial seizures.
Brain injuries are one reason a person may develop simple partial seizures.

Simple partial seizures are unique because they do not cause an individual to lose consciousness and most people remain entirely alert during the seizure. Although, the person may still experience various simple partial seizure symptoms. Frequently, an individual may experience stiffening, jerking or twitching in face, leg, arm, hand or foot. He or she may experience different muscle contractions as well. The person's head may also start to move uncontrollably.

People with dementia and low blood sugar are particularly susceptible to having simple partial seizures.
People with dementia and low blood sugar are particularly susceptible to having simple partial seizures.

Often, individuals with these types of seizures will have hallucinations and see, smell and hear things that are not there. Many people may have visual disturbances and see flashing or spots of light or darkness. After the seizure has passed, behavioral changes may exist. The person may be confused, become angry or cry.

Doctors may order an electroencephalogram (EEG) to diagnose these seizures. This is a type of test which records the activity of electrical brain signals. Sometimes, doctors record patients undergoing this type of test on video over the course of a night in case a seizure occurs. This may be done for a visual inspection of what happens to the person during a seizure. In most cases, simple partial seizures treatment will generally include an anti-seizure medication.

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    • Studying a brain's electrical activity through an EEG test may help identify the underlying cause of a simple partial seizure.
      By: Tobilander
      Studying a brain's electrical activity through an EEG test may help identify the underlying cause of a simple partial seizure.
    • Brain injuries are one reason a person may develop simple partial seizures.
      By: william87
      Brain injuries are one reason a person may develop simple partial seizures.
    • People with dementia and low blood sugar are particularly susceptible to having simple partial seizures.
      By: riccardo bruni
      People with dementia and low blood sugar are particularly susceptible to having simple partial seizures.
    • Using illicit drugs can increase an individual's risk of seizures.
      By: aaabbc
      Using illicit drugs can increase an individual's risk of seizures.
    • An electroencephalogram -- or EEG -- machine measures electrical impulse activity in the brain and can help give a diagnosis for conditions such as seizures or epilepsy.
      By: satori
      An electroencephalogram -- or EEG -- machine measures electrical impulse activity in the brain and can help give a diagnosis for conditions such as seizures or epilepsy.
    • Severe dehydration may cause a person to experience seizures.
      By: koszivu
      Severe dehydration may cause a person to experience seizures.
    • Long-term bulimia may cause seizures.
      By: Sylvie Bouchard
      Long-term bulimia may cause seizures.