Understanding Seizures: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

💡A seizure is an abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain, revealing an underlying issue.

🔎Seizures can be caused by external factors, such as low blood sugar or toxins, or internal brain problems like inflammation or tumors.

🏥Blood tests and an MRI are commonly used to diagnose the cause of seizures and rule out underlying conditions.

⏰Seizures can last from a few seconds to several minutes, with most dogs experiencing disorientation afterward.

🧪Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs, typically diagnosed through the exclusion of other causes.

When should tests be considered to find the cause of seizures?

—Tests should be considered when a seizure occurs in young or old dogs, dogs with abnormal neurological examinations, or certain breeds that are more prone to structural brain issues.

Are seizures life-threatening?

—Seizures themselves are usually not life-threatening, but seizures lasting longer than three minutes or multiple seizures in one day require immediate veterinary attention.

How are seizures treated?

—Seizures can be treated with emergency drugs, such as valium, to stop ongoing seizures. Maintenance drugs, like phenobarbital or potassium bromide, are used to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Can all seizures be completely stopped with medication?

—Medications can help reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of seizures, but it's unlikely that all seizures can be completely stopped. The goal is to manage seizures and improve the pet's quality of life.

What are the realistic expectations for seizure treatment?

—The goal of seizure treatment is to decrease the frequency, severity, and duration of seizures. Complete seizure control may not be achievable, but medications can significantly improve the pet's condition.

00:09Seizures are a common condition indicating a problem in the brain.

01:35Seizures can be caused by external factors or internal brain problems.

03:39Blood tests and an MRI are performed to diagnose the cause of seizures.

05:31Tests should be considered based on age, neurological examination, and breed characteristics.

06:55Seizures lasting longer than three minutes or multiple seizures in one day require immediate attention.

07:31Emergency drugs like valium help stop ongoing seizures, while maintenance drugs reduce their frequency and severity.

08:32Complete seizure control may not be achievable, but medications can significantly improve the pet's condition.

09:39The goal of seizure treatment is to decrease the frequency, severity, and duration of seizures.