Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures(Pseudoseizures)Si-co-jenn-ick Non-epp-ill-epp-tic See-zurs
by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionPsychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are seizure-like movements, sensations, or behaviors. PNES may seem similar to epileptic seizures. However, they have very different causes. Causes TOPPNES is caused by mental health problems. This may include intense emotions, trauma, or stress. Other conditions like depression are also often present. It is not caused by problems with electrical signals in the brain.
Risk Factors TOPFactors that may increase the risk of PNES include:
Risk factors specific to children include:
Symptoms TOPPNES symptoms may include:
PNES may differ from epilepsy in that PNES does not usually include:
Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your symptoms and past health. The doctor will ask questions about the seizure. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a doctor that specializes in the nervous system and the brain. The doctor may suspect PNES based on your responses. To rule out other types of seizures the doctor may order:
Treatment TOPTreatment is focused on the cause of PNES. Mental health problems may be treated with one or both of the following:
Prevention TOPThere is no known ways to prevent PNES. RESOURCES:Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (CURE) http://www.cureepilepsy.org Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians http://www.familydoctor.org References:LaFrance WC Jr, Reuber M, Goldstein LH. Management of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsia. 2013 Mar;54 Suppl 1:53-67 Non-epileptic seizures. Epilepsy Society website. Available at: https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/non-epileptic-seizures#.Vwe7rnpuN8E. Published July 2017. Accessed April 11, 2018. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.... Updated October 16, 2017. Accessed April 11, 2018. The truth about psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed April 11, 2018. Last reviewed April 2018 by Michael Woods, MD Last Updated: 5/11/2018 | |
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