A patient experiencing a myoclonic seizure experiences a rapid muscle contractions as if they were jolted by electrical energy. The mechanism behind the action is similar to that of a myoclonic jerk, that occasional spasm sometimes experienced by individuals when they are falling unconscious. But unlike myclonic jerks, myoclonic seizures usually occur only in brief bouts.
Myoclonic seizures can be classified into two major categories: primary and secondary myoclonic seizures. There are various other forms of myoclonic seizures such as mixed seizures, spasms or convulsions, and grand mal seizures.
Primary myoclonic seizures are those for which the cause is unknown, or at least not clearly defined. A person diagnosed with a primary myoclonic seizure usually reports feeling extremely relaxed and sometimes even mildly disoriented. A patient experiencing this type of seizure may also experience visual disturbances such as flickering lights or distorted images. Patients experiencing this type of myoclonic seizure are often prone to hyperventilation.
Secondary myoclonic seizure is also called a "sluggish" myoclonic seizure, an "unspecified" myoclonic seizure, or an "unspecified" seizure. This type of myoclonic seizure is most often confused with anaphylactic shock, a medical emergency characterized by sudden death due to chest swelling, choking of the lungs, or difficulty breathing. The cause of this type of myoclonic seizure is unknown, but not always fatal. In fact, many doctors associate this type of myoclonic seizure with hypoglycemia, which is a condition in which blood sugar levels suddenly rise or fall.
The main symptom of a myoclonic seizure is a violent race or throbbing that often starts in one area of the body and quickly spreads to another. These sensations are usually felt in the chest, abdomen, arms, legs, or feet. Most patients describe them as a feeling of intense pain or burning in the body. When myoclonic seizures begin, they are usually preceded by intense anxiety and fear, and can last from a few seconds to 10 minutes.
Myoclonic seizures can sometimes be mistaken for anaphylactic shock. But, while a myoclonic seizure can be accompanied by the feeling of burning or stinging in the chest and stomach, this is usually caused by a malfunctioning pacemaker. The onset of myoclonic seizures can also be confused with post-operative heartburn, since this is one of the most common causes of panic attacks. Myoclonic seizures can also be mistaken as cardiac arrhythmias, since they occur along with an irregular heartbeat, which in some cases cause a "palpitation" of the heart and increased heart rate.
Myoclonic seizures can be very dangerous. Patients with these seizures may experience nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, a drop in blood pressure, a change in vision, and loss of consciousness, among other possible complications. When myoclonic seizures begin, they should not delay in seeking emergency care because they may be suffering from a stroke. Myoclonic seizures can even lead to death if the cause is not identified in time. Myoclonous epilepsy cannot be successfully treated in any but a controlled.
Myoclonic seizures can cause serious medical conditions if not properly identified and treated. If you think you may have this form of epilepsy, contact your doctor or an emergency medical professional immediately. Also, never take medication that is prescribed without first consulting your doctor or health care provider.
Myoclonic seizures are most often misdiagnosed as heart disease, diabetes, or nervous system diseases such as Parkinson’s. This is because most sufferers are unaware that their symptoms actually arise from the body’s neurological process, not from their physical organs. If you think that you might have myoclonic seizures, it is always best to visit your doctor or emergency medical professionals right away. In some instances, if a proper diagnosis has been made, it can be treated and you can return to your normal life. However, in more severe cases, medical attention is needed to prevent permanent brain damage from these seizures.
Seizures can be treated with a combination of medications that are used to stop or reverse the seizure. These treatments may include medicines or drugs to lower blood pressure and block adrenaline release. These medications are commonly prescribed to stop a myoclonic seizure, but some may also be used in conjunction with medications that are used to treat other forms of epilepsy. Medications may include antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, and anti-convulsants. There may be an option to use a combination of two or more medications to stop myoclonic seizures.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with myoclonic seizures, you should be aware of the symptoms of this condition and seek immediate medical attention. If you are having difficulty sleeping, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Severe cases of myoclonic seizures may require surgery or Intravenous (IV) catheterization. Seek emergency medical care if you have trouble breathing or you experience severe chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty swallowing.