Temporal lobe seizure

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Central nervous system

Seizures that occur once or in a single cluster are commonly caused by an acute condition, such as brain injury. They may occur secondary to an isolated incident, but can then develop into a chronic seizure disorder. Seizures within the first 2 weeks of a brain injury do not necessarily mean that a chronic seizure disorder will develop.

Serious injury can occur if seizure happen while driving, or when operating dangerous equipment. Each state has different policies on driving restrictions. Swimming and bathing without supervision are also not recommended. Contact sports are not advisable. These activities may be restricted for persons with poorly controlled seizure disorders.

• Progression to generalized seizures
• Repeated seizures (epilepsy)
• Prolonged seizures, closely occurring seizures (status epilepticus)
• Injury from falls, bumps, biting self, etc.
• Injury from seizure occurring during driving or operating machinery
• Breathing fluid, such as saliva, during a seizure can cause pneumonia
• Permanent brain damage (stroke or other damage)
• Side effects of medications (with or without observable symptoms)

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if:

• This is the first time the person has had a seizure, or this is a new type or prolonged seizure
• This is an emergency situation
• If sequential seizures occur, or if there is repeat seizure activity where consciousness is not regained in between seizures (status epilepticus).
• Any new symptoms occur, including possible side effects of medications, such as changes in mental status (drowsiness, restlessness, confusion, sedation, or others), nausea or vomiting, rash, loss of hair, tremors or abnormal movements, problems with coordination

Review Date: 09/07/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.