Topic Overview
People with nonepileptic seizures (NES) have periods of seizure-like
activity. NES are characterized by a loss of or change in physical function
without a
problem. The loss or change
causes periods of physical activity or inactivity that resemble
. A person can have both
nonepileptic and epileptic seizures.
NES are usually related to a mental health problem. The physical
symptoms may be caused by emotional conflicts or stress. The symptoms usually
appear suddenly and at times of extreme emotional stress. Some health
professionals believe that the symptoms of NES may be an attempt to reduce
anxiety by not recognizing or responding to an emotional conflict.
People with NES have periods of loss of or change in physical
activity that resemble epileptic seizures or the
of a seizure, such as:
- Impaired or jerky
movements.
- Disturbances in coordination.
- Temporary
blindness.
- Tunnel vision.
- Loss of the sense of smell
(anosmia) or touch (anesthesia).
- Tingling sensation to the skin
(paresthesia).
People with NES usually exhibit only one symptom. However, if
episodes recur, the symptom may reappear but in a different location or
intensity.
Treatment of NES varies with the individual. The goals of treatment
for NES are to relieve the stress or emotional conflicts that may be causing
the loss of or change in physical function. Treatment may include medicines,
, or specific life changes, such as a job
change or assistance at home.
Because NES are not caused by a problem in the brain, medicines that
are used to treat epilepsy are not used to treat this condition.