Emergency Neurological Conditions

Seizures

The injured brain can be prone to seizures. A seizure is the uncontrolled release of electrical activity in the brain. Not only can this result in uncontrolled, violent movement but seizures can also drastically increase the nutritional and oxygen requirements of the brain. If nutrient and oxygen deliver is already compromised, as it often is in the injured brain, this can lead to further brain injury. A seizure may also result in a localized or generalized increase in cerebral blood flow, raising brain pressures. Lastly, uncontrolled seizures can actually induce brain swelling.

Seizures are not always evident. Some patients may suffer "non-convulsive status epilepticus." The patient may appear to be asleep or in a coma, but in the brain there is a continuous and uncontrolled discharge of electrical activity. This condition is diagnosed by electroencephalography, or EEG. An EEG measures and monitors brain activity.

Anyone in a neurological ICU who may be in danger of seizures is placed on anti-seizure medications as a preventive measure. Keppra and Dilantin are two commonly used medications. When seizures occur and do not rapidly resolve, they can be broken with powerful sedatives or by giving medications that place the brain asleep (akin to an induced coma).