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Epilepsy Drug Linked to Babies' Lower IQ
A new study says the epilepsy drug valproate may lower the IQ of children born to women who take the drug while pregnant.
A new study says the epilepsy drug valproate may lower the IQ of children born to women who take the drug while pregnant.
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Epilepsy Seizure Symptoms
Epilepsy Symptoms
Almost any type of behavior that happens repetitively may represent a seizure.
-
Generalized seizures: All areas of the brain (the cortex) are
involved in a generalized seizure. Sometimes these are referred to as grand mal
seizures.
- To the observer, the person experiencing such a seizure may cry out or make some sound, stiffen for some seconds, then have rhythmic movements of the arms and legs. Often the rhythmic movements slow before stopping.
- Eyes are generally open.
- The person may not appear to be breathing. The person is often breathing
deeply after an episode.
- The return to consciousness is gradual and should occur within a few
moments.
- Loss of urine is common.
- Often people will be confused briefly after a generalized seizure.
-
Partial or focal seizures: Only part of the brain is involved, so
only part of the body is affected. Depending on the part of the brain having
abnormal electrical activity, symptoms may vary.
- If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for
example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or
jerking.
- If other areas of the brain are involved, symptoms might include strange
sensations or small repetitive movements such as picking at clothes or lip
smacking.
- Sometimes the person with a partial seizure appears dazed or confused. This may represent a partial complex seizure. The term complex is used by doctors to describe a person who is between being fully alert and unconscious.
- If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for
example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or
jerking.
-
Absence or petit mal seizures: These are most common in
childhood.
- Impairment of consciousness is present with the person often staring
blankly.
- Repetitive blinking or other small movements may be present.
- Typically, these seizures are brief, lasting only seconds. Some people may
have many of these in a day.
- Other seizure types exist, particularly in very small children.
- Impairment of consciousness is present with the person often staring
blankly.