Neurologists have identified more than 30 different types of seizures, which are divided into two major categories. Within each category, there are many different types of seizures.
Partial seizures—Seizures that originate in one specific area on one side (hemisphere) of the brain
Generalized seizures—Seizures that originate in several areas on both sides (hemispheres) of the brain.
A simple partial seizure occurs when an electrical disturbance affects just one side of the brain, but doesn’t alter consciousness. During a complex partial seizure, a larger part of the brain is affected, and the person experiencing the seizure has a change in, or loss of, consciousness. Sometimes, partial seizures move from one side of the brain to both sides of the brain; this is described as a "secondarily generalized" seizure.
Seizures may be triggered by a variety of factors. These include:
- Lack of sleep
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Hormonal changes (such as those that occur during a woman’s menstrual cycle)
- Light flashing at a certain speed or the flicker of a computer monitor (a rare condition called photosensitive epilepsy)
- Smoking cigarettes
It can be very difficult to determine exactly what type of seizures a person experiences, but it’s crucial when planning the most appropriate treatment. Neurologists depend on close observation and careful testing to determine seizure type. Learn more about diagnosis.
Visit EpilepsyAdvocate.com for inspiring stories of how other people with epilepsy are achieving seizure control and making the most of epilepsy treatment.
Next: Simple Partial Seizures
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Keppra XR® is a prescription medicine that is used with other medicines to treat partial onset seizures in people 16 years of age and older with epilepsy.
Keppra XR® is generally well-tolerated, but may not be for everyone. Ask your doctor if Keppra XR® is right for you. Like other antiepileptic drugs, Keppra XR® may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500 people taking it. Patients should call their healthcare provider right away if they have depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior while taking Keppra XR®. Keppra XR® may cause extreme sleepiness, tiredness, and weakness, and problems with muscle coordination. Keppra XR® may also cause mood and behavior changes including psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and unusual behavior. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms. The most common side effects seen with Keppra XR® and other formulations of Keppra® include sleepiness, weakness, dizziness, and infection. Do not stop taking Keppra XR® unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Stopping a seizure medication all at once can cause seizures that will not stop, a very serious problem.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may also report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or go to www.fda.gov/medwatch or contact UCB, Inc. at 1-866-822-0068.
Please see Keppra XR® Medication Guide and Full Prescribing Information for additional important patient information.
*With this coupon, you pay the first $25 of your Keppra XR® or Keppra® co-pay and we pay your remaining out-of-pocket expense up to a maximum of $30. This coupon may not be reproduced and must accompany a valid, signed Keppra XR® prescription. No cash value. Offer not valid for prescriptions reimbursed or paid under any government health insurance program (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare) or any private payer in Massachusetts or where otherwise prohibited by law. Patients are responsible for reporting this rebate to any private insurer that covers any part of the prescription. Offer expires on 12/31/12. UCB may cancel or alter this program at any time without notice.