Seizures
Seizures, also commonly referred to a convulsions, is a loss of consciousness with sudden uncontrolled contractions of the muscles. There are two types; rapid and slow. Convulsions may be linked to more serious, underlying conditions like epilepsy or tumors. Some convulsions are also of mysterious origin and they stop as quickly as they begin.
Symptoms
Sometimes a seizure will be preceded by the face becoming flushed, a general attitude of irritability, gritting of the teeth, and then twitching of the muscles and the fingers closing over the thumb. They often happen without warning. The body may become rigid, the eyes become fixed and staring, the head draws back and breathing seems to be suspended. The person having a convulsion may appear somewhat blue. And the muscles may go into spasm. The eyes may roll, the limbs jerk about and there may be some contortion of the face. The tongue may be bitten during the course of the episode. Sometimes the bladder and bowel release as well. Convulsions may be followed by a sound sleep or a coma.
Causes
Seizures can be caused by fever, gastrointestinal irritability, teething in infants, intestinal parasites, or diseases like pneumonia, smallpox, scarlet fever, epilepsy or measles. Newborns may suffer convulsions when instruments have been used in the delivery. Some children may have convulsions after a bad fright. Other causes may be due to tumors, hydrocephalus or meningeal hemorrhage. It is thought that when convulsions occur, the brain cells are sending out abnormal signals.
Cautions
Seek medical assistance if you experience an episode as convulsions may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition that needs to be diagnosed.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Skullcap – this herb has been used to treat convulsions from malaria and fever. Follow the instructions for dosing on the label for the best results with this tranquilizing herb. Skullcap should not be used in children under the age of 2 years.
- Reishi mushroom – this is a stress-reducing herb that can be effective for convulsions. It is especially good for sensitive patients who tend to be over stimulated by other remedies.
- Chinaberry – studies with animals on this herb suggest that it may be useful in helping to prevent epileptic convulsions.
- Valerian – this herb can be taken three times a day in a dose of 120 mg. It is a sedative and anticonvulsive. It may interact with prescription medications, so use under the guidance of a skilled professional. It may be combined with lemon balm.
- Passionflower – this anticonvulsive may be taken as tea three times per day. It can also be taken as an extract in a dose of 45 to 60 drops.
- Kava – this herb is also anticonvulsive and relieves stress and anxiety. It aids sleep and is a natural sedative. Follow the instructions on the label for the best results when treating convulsions. Please note Kava is associated with documented serious side effects, notably liver damage. Kava should only be taken under herbalist care.