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Neuro-Oncology University of Washington Medical Center |
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Seizures
Individuals who have brain tumors are at an increased risk for seizures. This is thought to occur because of disruption of the normal functioning of brain cells because of pressure caused by the tumor itself, by edema (brain swelling), or by associated "scar tissue." Seizures occur when brain cells discharge electrical signals in an uncontrolled manner. These abnormal discharges may then spread to other brain cells. As more brain cells become involved, seizures result. The type of symptom, or seizure, depends upon which area of the brain is involved in the abnormal electrical activity. If the motor areas of the brain are affected, muscle groups in the limbs or face may develop involuntary movements, such as jerking or posturing. If just the motor area in the brain which represents the leg is involved, the seizure will only affect the leg, and likewise for the arm and face. If the sensory area of the brain is involved, the seizure may manifest as tingling, numbness, buzzing , or other strange sensations in the corresponding body part. Seizures in the temporal lobe or in some areas of the frontal lobe can result in an alteration of consciousness during which a person may continue to perform a meaningful activity, but in an inappropriate manner, such as walking about, shuffling papers, looking around, and so on. The individual appears to be aware of their surroundings but they usually will be unable to respond if they are spoken to. During some types of seizures the individual may appear to be in a daze or stare blankly. When seizure activity in the brain spreads to involve the other side of the brain, consciousness is lost and the individual may have what is referred to as a generalized tonic clonic or grand mal seizure, which is involuntary jerking of all the limbs. There are many different kinds of seizures. For more information regarding their description and what to do when a person has a seizure, please refer to Appendix 1, "About Seizures," compiled from the pamphlet "Epilepsy: Questions and Answers" and Appendix 2,"Seizure Recognition and First Aid", both published by the Epilepsy Foundation of America. Anticonvulsant medication is prescribed for patients to decrease the risk of having a seizure. It is important to take these medications as prescribed and to have the blood level of these medications checked on a regular basis. Some of the more common anticonvulsant medications prescribed include phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital, carbamazepine (Tegretol), valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote), and Neurontin. Should you experience any medication side effects, or any new symptoms, you should notify your nurse.
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