Non-Epileptic Seizure

Non-epileptic seizures impede your daily life with involuntary convulsions, but they don’t have to. Jamie Barnes, PA, LCPC, at Open Door Wellness in Great Falls, Montana, is a qualified physician assistant and mental health counselor who treats your symptoms at the source. Jamie offers several treatment options for non-epileptic seizures. Take your first steps towards a symptom-free life, call the office, or schedule an appointment through the online portal today.

What are non-epileptic seizures?

A seizure is an involuntary loss of muscle control that manifests in numerous ways. The most common form is an epileptic seizure, where abnormal brain activity is detected. In a non-epileptic seizure, abnormal electrical activity in the brain is absent.

Non-epileptic seizures manifest in a variety of ways. They may cause convulsions and loss of consciousness, like epileptic seizures. Additionally, non-epileptic seizures express as panic attacks and fainting. Other common symptoms that you may experience during a seizure include:

• Confusion
• Involuntary and jerking movements
• Staring for long periods
• Cognitive manifestations, such as anxiety or fear

A non-epileptic seizure may incorporate one or multiple symptoms. It’s essential to record your symptoms to the best of your ability. The information is vital in the diagnosis and treatment of non-epileptic seizures.

What causes non-epileptic seizures?

Unfortunately, there is no specific known cause for the onset of non-epileptic seizures. It’s believed the condition is a stress reaction due to psychological trauma. Those diagnosed with non-epileptic seizures often have accompanying mental health conditions, such as:

• Anxiety
• Dissociative disorders
• Mood disorders
• Experiences with abuse
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Injury to the brain

How are non-epileptic seizures diagnosed?

The most reliable method of diagnosis for non-epileptic seizures is an electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG monitors the electrical activity in the brain to detect any abnormalities. In the case of non-epileptic seizures, no strange activity is detected. This data helps your doctor provide a non-epileptic seizure diagnosis in conjunction with your symptom history.

Additionally, your primary health care provider may administer other helpful tools as part of the diagnostic process. Examples of these evaluations may include a complete neurological exam, insight into your medical and family history, and lab tests such as blood work.

How do you treat non-epileptic seizures?

Treatments for non-epileptic seizures address the root psychological issue. Several forms of therapy aid in this process. Depending on your unique symptoms and contributing factors, Jamie tailors the specific therapy to your needs. Many forms of treatment include behavioral, cognitive, and family therapies. 

Additionally, a healthy lifestyle plays a vital role in maintaining non-epileptic seizures. A well-balanced diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep help reduce your symptoms.

Call the Great Falls, Montana office or book through the online reservation system today to speak with Jamie about what treatment options are right for you.