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2007-8-30 13:51:17 |
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Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. was rushed to hospital after suffering a seizure at his summer home in Maine about 2 p. m. today, according to news reports. The cause of his seizure remains unknown even after a thorough neurological evaluation. Roberts suffered a similar episode, described as a "benign idiopathic seizure" 14 years ago, the New York Times reports. Both incidents have not left any lasting effects. But what is a seizure? Seizures are symptoms of a brain problem. They occur when the brain experiences a sudden, abnormal electrical activity. There are many types of seizures and some have mild symptoms. But mainly they include focal seizures, also known as partial seizures that occur in just one part of the brain and generalized seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity on both sides of the brain. Most seizures last no more than 2 minutes and cause no lasting harm. But if seizures last longer than 5 minutes or if a person has many seizures and does not wake up between them, medical emergency care is advised. Seizures can result from many causes including medicines, high fevers, head injuries, low blood sugar, alcohol withdrawal, and certain diseases such as brain tumor, stroke, epilepsy and infection. People who have recurring seizures due to a brain disorder are said to have epilepsy. Many seizures lead to loss of consciousness with twitching or shaking of the body. Sometimes, seizures may cause temporary abnormal sensations or visual disturbances. There is no easy way to prevent seizures. But head injury, which may cause seizures, can be prevented using helmets whenever appropriate. Recreational drugs should be avoided to lower the risk. People who are known to have epilepsy should take medications as directed and avoid excessive drinking of alcohol. |
