Seizures

If you or a loved one struggles with seizures or involuntary shaking or jerking movements, see the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders (DCND) team for an evaluation. Offering services to adults in Dayton, Centerville, Springfield, Eaton, Wilmington, Hillsboro, Beavercreek, and Huber Heights, Ohio, the skilled neurology experts diagnose and treat seizure disorders, finding their underlying causes and minimizing worrisome symptoms. We also have two epileptologists who work directly with Kettering Brain and Spine. To receive seizure care at DCND, talk to your primary care provider about procuring a referral. Then, the office will reach out to you to schedule an appointment.

Seizures Q & A

What are seizures?

Seizures are sudden, uncontrollable brain activity and movements that may change behavior patterns and even your level of consciousness. Epilepsy is a common seizure disorder characterized as two or more seizures occurring a minimum of 24 hours apart without a known cause.

The Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders experts are highly trained in treating diseases that contribute to seizures. They tailor each treatment plan based on your unique situation.

What are the symptoms of seizures?

The symptoms of seizures depend on the type you have and their cause. Seizures range in severity from mild to severe and cause:

Staring spells
Temporary confusion
Emotional or cognitive changes
Loss of awareness of consciousness
Jerking movements
Uncontrollable body movements
Fear
Anxiety

Many seizures last for 30 seconds to two minutes. Seizures are considered medical emergencies if they last more than five minutes. Schedule an evaluation at the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders at the first sign of a seizure.

What are the risk factors for seizures?

Factors that may increase your risk of seizures include:

Genetics
High fevers
Lack of sleep
Severe viral infections
Brain infections
Some medications
Head trauma
Drug use
Alcohol misuse
Epilepsy

Determining the cause of seizures is vital to treating them properly and reducing the risk of future problems.

How are seizures diagnosed?

The Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders team diagnoses seizures and their underlying cause after reviewing your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle habits, medications, and more.

They also complete physical and neurological exams and may recommend additional tests. Examples include blood tests, a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), brain activity testing, an MRI, a CT scan, a PET scan, or additional imaging tests.

How are seizures treated?

The Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders offers numerous treatments for seizures, including:

Diet counseling
Medications
Infusions
Electrical stimulation
Surgery
Treating the underlying cause
Lifestyle changes

Your neurologist may recommend more than one treatment to ensure an effective outcome. They follow up with you periodically to help you properly manage seizures or eliminate them. The goal is improved disease management, fewer symptoms, and a low risk of complications.

To get help from the DCND team for seizures, first ask your primary care physician for a referral. Then the office will reach out to you to schedule an appointment.