Generalized Seizures - these types
of seizures can affect bothe cerebral hemispheres (sides of the brain) from when the seizure begins. Loss of consciousness
may occur, either briefly or for a long period of time. The generalized seizures are sub-categorized into several
major types: tonic clonic; myoclonic; absence; and atonic. (Epilepsy Foundation)
Partial Seizures - Partial seizures are
the most common among people with epilepsy. In partil seizures the electrical disturbance occurs in a specific
area of one cerebral hemisphere (sie of the brain). Partial seizures are subdivided into simple partial seizures
- in which consciousness is retained, and complex partial seizures - where consciousness is impaired
or lost. Virtually any movement, sensory, or emotional symptom can occur as part of a partial seizure including complex
visual or auditory hallucinations. (Epilepsy Foundation)
Non-Epileptic Seizures - Nonepileptic
seizures are episodes that can change a person's behaviour and may look like an epileptic seizure. Someone having a
nonepileptic seizure may have internal sensation that are similar to those felt during an epileptic seizure. It can
often be difficult to distinguish between these two kinds of episodes by just watching the event, but there is an important
difference. Epileptic seizures are caused by abnormal electrical changes in the brain, particularly in its outer layer
known as the cortex. Nonepileptic seizures are not caused by these electrical disruptions. (Epilepsy Foundation)
Status Epilepticus -
Prolonged or clustered seizures may develop into non-stop seizures, otherwise known as status epilepticus.
Status epilepticus is a medical emergency. It requires hospital treatment to bring the seizures under control. (Epilepsy
Foundation)