Myoclonic seizures
.Myoclonic Seizures
A myoclonic seizure is a type of movement disorder which involves brief, shock-like jerks in the muscles, usually on both sides of the body. Myoclonic seizures can range from mild to severe, and they usually happen suddenly and unexpectedly.
Myoclonic seizures are more commonly seen in children than adults, and they often happen during sleep. They can be terrifying for parents to witness, especially if their child has never had a seizure before. It’s important to note that myoclonic seizures alone usually aren’t life-threatening.
Signs and Symptoms
- Brief and sudden jerks of any number of muscle groups, such as arm, leg, back, or face
- May occur in clusters, one soon after the other, or can be isolated
- Can happen during sleep or during wakefulness
- May cause involuntary vocalization, such as a cry
- Typically happens suddenly, without warning
Causes
Myoclonic seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. There are numerous potential causes, but the most common underlying cause is juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), a form of epilepsy that typically starts during teenage years and is typically inherited.
Other causes of myoclonic seizures can include central nervous system infections, metabolic disorders, trauma to the brain, and certain poisons. In rare cases, myoclonic seizures can be caused by certain drugs—both recreational and prescribed—and alcohol.
Diagnosis
Myoclonic seizures can be hard to diagnose, as the diagnosis relies heavily on eyewitness accounts. A doctor will typically ask for a detailed description of the events in order to make a proper diagnosis.
The doctor may also order tests such as an electroencephalogram (EEG), a test that records electrical activity in the brain. An EEG test may show abnormal activity in the brain that can help diagnose myoclonic seizures.
Treatment
Myoclonic seizures can usually be managed with medication. A doctor may prescribe anti-epileptic drugs to help reduce the frequency and severity of the seizures. In some cases, physical therapy or occupational therapy may be necessary to help control the seizures.
It’s also important to pay close attention to triggers that may be causing the seizures. Stress or fatigue are common triggers, and avoiding or reducing these can help reduce the frequency and severity of the seizures.