Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures
=Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures =
Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures (PNES) are episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but are psychological in origin. They are classified as a type of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and are often associated with emotional or psychological distress.
Signs and Symptoms[edit | edit source]
PNES can present with a variety of symptoms that mimic epileptic seizures, including:
- Convulsions
- Loss of consciousness
- Staring spells
- Jerking movements
Unlike epileptic seizures, PNES do not have a neurological origin and are not associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing PNES can be challenging and often involves:
- Video EEG Monitoring: This is the gold standard for differentiating PNES from epileptic seizures. During a video EEG, the patient's brain activity is recorded while they are monitored on video.
- Clinical History: A detailed history of the patient's symptoms and psychological background is crucial.
- Psychological Evaluation: Assessment by a mental health professional can help identify underlying psychological issues.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of PNES is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to:
- Psychological stress or trauma
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and depression
- Personality disorders
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for PNES typically involves:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is often the first line of treatment and focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Psychotherapy: Various forms of therapy can help address underlying psychological issues.
- Medication: While there is no medication specifically for PNES, medications may be prescribed to treat co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for individuals with PNES varies. With appropriate treatment, many patients experience a reduction in seizure frequency and improvement in quality of life. However, some individuals may continue to experience seizures despite treatment.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Epilepsy
- Functional Neurological Disorder
- Conversion Disorder
- Smith, J. (2020). "Understanding Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures." Journal of Neurology.
- Brown, A. & Green, C. (2019). "Functional Neurological Disorders: A Comprehensive Guide." Neuropsychology Review.
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures is a rare disease.
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