Understanding Fits Attack (Seizures): Causes, Symptoms, First Aid & Treatment
Seizures, commonly referred to as “fits,” are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and consciousness. While witnessing a seizure can be frightening, understanding the condition can help manage it better and reduce fear or stigma. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide on fits attacks, their causes, symptoms, types, first-aid response, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What Is a Fits Attack?
A fit or seizure occurs when there is an abnormal surge of electrical activity in the brain. This surge can affect how a person appears or behaves for a short time. It may last from a few seconds to several minutes. Seizures can happen once or repeatedly, and recurrent seizures are diagnosed as epilepsy.
Key Points:
• Fits = Sudden abnormal brain activity.
• May cause jerky movements, staring spells, or unconsciousness.
• Can occur at any age and due to various reasons.
• Not all seizures are due to epilepsy.
Types of Seizures
Seizures are broadly categorized into focal (partial) and generalized types based on where they originate in the brain.
1. Focal (Partial) Seizures
These begin in one specific part of the brain.
• Simple Partial Seizures: No loss of consciousness. Symptoms may include twitching, dizziness, or sensory changes.
• Complex Partial Seizures: Altered awareness. The person may appear confused, mumble, or make repetitive movements.
2. Generalized Seizures
These affect both sides of the brain.
• Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal): The most dramatic type. Includes body stiffening (tonic) and jerking (clonic), often with loss of consciousness.
• Absence Seizures (Petit Mal): Brief lapses in awareness, often mistaken for daydreaming.
• Myoclonic Seizures: Sudden muscle jerks.
• Atonic Seizures: Sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to falls.
• Tonic Seizures: Muscle stiffening without jerks.
• Clonic Seizures: Repeated jerking movements.
Causes of Fits Attacks
Seizures can occur due to many underlying reasons. In some cases, the cause remains unknown (idiopathic).
Common Causes:
• Epilepsy: A neurological disorder with recurrent seizures.
• Head Injury: Trauma can disturb brain function.
• Fever (Febrile Seizures): Common in infants and toddlers.
• Infections: Like meningitis or encephalitis.
• Stroke or Brain Tumor
• Genetic Conditions
• Sleep Deprivation
• Alcohol or Drug Withdrawal
• Electrolyte Imbalance (e.g., low sodium, calcium)
• Metabolic Disorders
• High Fever in Children
• Birth Trauma in Newborns
Symptoms of a Fits Attack
The symptoms vary widely based on the type of seizure and the part of the brain involved.
Possible Symptoms:
• Sudden stiffness or jerking of limbs
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion or staring spells
• Unusual sensations (smell, taste, sound)
• Temporary halt in breathing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Lip smacking or chewing motions
• Repetitive movements (hand rubbing, walking in circles)
• Unresponsiveness or fainting
After-Effects (Postictal Phase):
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Memory gaps
• Body weakness
What to Do During a Fits Attack (First Aid)
Watching someone have a seizure can be distressing, but your calm response can make a big difference.
DOs:
1. Stay Calm and note the time.
2. Protect from injury – Move sharp or hard objects away.
3. Lay them down on a flat surface and turn them to their side (recovery position).
4. Place something soft under the head.
5. Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
6. Time the seizure – Seek emergency help if it lasts more than 5 minutes.
7. Stay with the person until fully alert.
DON’Ts:
• Do not hold the person down.
• Do not put anything in their mouth – it could cause choking.
• Do not try to give food, drink, or medicine during the seizure.
• Do not leave the person alone.
When to Call for Emergency Help
Call emergency services if:
• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
• Another seizure follows immediately.
• The person has trouble breathing or waking up.
• It is the person's first seizure.
• The person is pregnant, injured, or diabetic.
• The seizure happens in water.
Diagnosis of Seizures
Proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment and management.
Diagnostic Tests:
• Detailed Medical History
• Neurological Examination
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – Records brain’s electrical activity.
• MRI or CT Scan – Detects structural abnormalities.
• Blood Tests – To check infection, glucose levels, or metabolic imbalances.
• Lumbar Puncture – If infection like meningitis is suspected.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause, type, and frequency of seizures.
1. Medications (Anti-Epileptic Drugs - AEDs):
Most people with epilepsy can control seizures with AEDs.
Common AEDs:
• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine
• Valproate
• Lamotrigine
• Levetiracetam
2. Surgery:
In cases where medication doesn’t help and seizures originate from a specific brain area.
3. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS):
Implanted device that sends electrical impulses to the brain via the vagus nerve.
4. Ketogenic Diet:
High-fat, low-carb diet, especially useful in children with hard-to-treat epilepsy.
5. Lifestyle Management:
• Adequate sleep
• Avoiding seizure triggers (flashing lights, stress)
• Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs
• Regular medication intake
Fits in Children
Seizures in children, especially febrile seizures, are common and often not a sign of epilepsy.
Febrile Seizures:
• Occur due to high fever.
• Typically affect children between 6 months and 5 years.
• Usually last less than 5 minutes.
• Not harmful or linked to long-term brain damage.
Management: Treat the fever and monitor. Consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.
Living with Seizures: Coping & Safety Tips
Daily Living Tips:
• Take medications regularly.
• Wear a medical ID bracelet.
• Inform close friends, teachers, or coworkers.
• Avoid risky activities like swimming alone or climbing heights.
Driving:
Most countries require seizure-free periods (e.g., 6-12 months) before allowing driving.
Emotional Support:
• Seizures can lead to anxiety or depression.
• Counseling or support groups can be beneficial.
Myths and Facts About Fits Attacks
Myth Fact
You should put something in the person’s mouth during a seizure False – It can cause choking or injuries.
Seizures are contagious False – You cannot catch a seizure from someone else.
People with epilepsy are mentally ill False – Epilepsy is a neurological condition, not a mental illness.
All seizures involve convulsions False – Some seizures are subtle like staring spells.
Conclusion
Fits attacks (seizures) can be alarming, but understanding them helps reduce fear and stigma. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and support, most people with seizures can lead full, active lives. If you or a loved one experiences seizures, seek timely medical attention. Early diagnosis and lifestyle management can make a huge difference.
FAQs About Fits Attack
Q1. Can stress cause seizures?
Yes, stress can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy. It doesn't usually cause seizures in healthy individuals.
Q2. Can someone swallow their tongue during a seizure?
No. It's a myth. However, the tongue may block the airway if the person is on their back.
Q3. Can seizures be cured?
Some types can be cured or go into long-term remission. Others are controlled with ongoing treatment.
Q4. Is epilepsy hereditary?
There can be a genetic component, but not always. Family history can increase risk.
If you're concerned about seizures in yourself or someone you care about, consult a neurologist. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment pave the way for a better quality of life.
