Overview
“Fits” is a colloquial term commonly used to describe seizures—sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, sensations, or consciousness. In Korea, seizures are treated under neurology and pediatric departments, depending on the patient’s age, type of seizure, and underlying cause. Modern hospitals in Korea provide advanced EEG monitoring, MRI, and video-EEG diagnostics, along with medical, surgical, and supportive therapies to control and prevent recurrent episodes.
What are Fits?
Fits refer to episodic neurological events where there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can be classified based on how and where they originate in the brain:
- Generalized seizures: Affect the entire brain, leading to convulsions, loss of consciousness, or muscle rigidity.
- Focal (partial) seizures: Begin in one area of the brain, causing localized symptoms such as twitching, strange sensations, or altered awareness.
- Febrile seizures: Fits triggered by high fever, most commonly in children aged 6 months to 5 years.
- Status epilepticus: Prolonged or repeated seizures without recovery between episodes, which is a medical emergency.
Symptoms
- Sudden loss of consciousness or awareness
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of limbs
- Staring spells or confusion
- Temporary cessation of breathing or unusual vocalizations
- Drooling or frothing at the mouth
- Muscle stiffening or rigidity
- Repetitive movements (lip-smacking, chewing motions)
- Post-seizure confusion, drowsiness, or headache
Causes
- Neurological disorders: Epilepsy, stroke, brain tumors, cerebral palsy
- Metabolic issues: Low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalance
- Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis, or fever-related seizures in children
- Trauma: Head injuries or post-surgical complications
- Genetic factors: Family history of seizures
- Medications or toxins: Certain drugs or alcohol withdrawal
Risk Factors
- Previous head injury or brain surgery
- Family history of seizures or epilepsy
- Brain infections (meningitis, encephalitis)
- Stroke or cerebrovascular disease
- Developmental disorders in children
- Chronic medical conditions affecting the brain
Complications
- Injuries during a seizure (falls, burns, or accidents)
- Aspiration pneumonia from inhaling saliva or vomit
- Repeated seizures leading to neurological impairment
- Status epilepticus (life-threatening prolonged seizure)
- Emotional and psychological impact on patients and families
Prevention
- Avoiding seizure triggers (sleep deprivation, stress, flashing lights)
- Proper management of chronic neurological disorders
- Adherence to prescribed anti-seizure medications
- Safe home and work environments to reduce injury risks
- Vaccinations to prevent infections that can trigger seizures in children
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect abnormal brain activity
- Video-EEG monitoring for complex cases
- MRI or CT scans to identify structural abnormalities
- Blood tests to detect metabolic causes
Medical Treatments:
- Antiepileptic medications (e.g., valproate, levetiracetam, carbamazepine)
- Medications to control fever in children prone to febrile seizures
- Emergency medications for prolonged seizures (diazepam, midazolam)
Surgical or Advanced Interventions:
- Epilepsy surgery for drug-resistant seizures
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy
- Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) in selected cases
Rehabilitation & Support:
- Lifestyle counseling and seizure safety education
- Psychological support for patients and families
- Monitoring developmental progress in children
- Regular follow-ups with neurologists for medication adjustment and seizure control
