Definition: A seizure is a brief surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It may affect only part of the brain (called a partial seizure) or may occur all over it (called a generalized seizure). A seizure may last from a few seconds to several minutes.
There are many different types of seizures, depending on what part and how much of the brain is affected by the electrical activity. Seizures can cause many different types of symptoms such as shaking or jerking of arms or legs, falling down, losing consciousness, or blank staring.
Many things can cause seizures, such as fever, infections, a head injury, or stroke. Seizures can also be related to genetic disorders such as Angelman syndrome, tuberous sclerosis complex, or neurofibromatosis.
Pronunciation: SEEZ-yur
