Stroke vs Seizures: What are the Differences?

A stroke and a seizure are two different medical emergencies involving the brain that can sometimes share similar symptoms. However, they are distinct conditions with different causes and treatments.

People are often curious about how to recognize a stroke and a seizure and this is commendable.

Why so?

Understanding the key differences between strokes and seizures is important for recognizing symptoms and getting proper care.

We have created this resource to help you identify these two medical conditions as this is critical to maintain sound health.

What is a Stroke?

Knowing how to recognize a stroke starts with understanding what a stroke is. A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients.

This can happen due to a blockage from a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain from a ruptured artery (hemorrhagic stroke).

The area of the brain affected determines which abilities are impaired and which stroke symptoms appear. These may include sudden numbness or paralysis, confusion, vision problems, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, dizziness, and loss of coordination or balance.

Quick treatment is critical for strokes, as brain cells begin dying within minutes. Getting a clot-dissolving drug or other intervention soon after symptoms start can reduce disability.

What is a Seizure?

A seizure is caused by a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that disrupts normal brain function, causing a change in movement, behavior, consciousness or sensation.

There are different types of seizures depending on which area of the brain is affected. Some cause violent shaking and muscle contractions, while others may produce staring spells, confusion, anxiety or unusual movements.

Many seizures are brief, ending in a couple minutes. They have various causes including epilepsy, high fever, head injuries, brain tumors, infections, or metabolic issues. Anti-seizure medications can help prevent and control seizures in many cases.

Differences Between Strokes and Seizures

So, what are the differences between strokes and seizures? Or better still, how can you identify both conditions?

While strokes and seizures both affect the brain, there are some key differences:

Causes

Strokes result from interrupted blood flow and lack of oxygen to the brain. Seizures are caused by uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.

Onset

Stroke symptoms tend to develop rapidly over seconds to minutes. Seizures typically begin abruptly with little warning.

Duration

Stroke effects are prolonged depending on how quickly treatment restores blood flow. Most seizures last just a few minutes, though confusion can persist temporarily.

Effects

Strokes often cause paralysis, vision/speech problems and other lasting impairments based on the brain region affected. Seizures usually don’t cause focal neurological deficits unless occurring repeatedly.

Recurrence

Stroke is a single event, though may increase risk of future strokes. Many seizure disorders involve recurring seizures over time.

Both strokes and seizures require prompt medical attention. With a stroke, quick action is critical to prevent brain damage by restoring blood flow quickly. Seizures that last longer than 5 minutes or cause injury require emergency care.

While they may initially look similar, recognizing the distinct symptoms, causes and effects of these two conditions can ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. When in doubt, call emergency services immediately anytime you suspect someone is having a stroke or seizure.

Knowing how to recognize a stroke or seizure is important. If you or a loved one experiences signs of a possible stroke or seizure disorder in Charlotte, North Carolina, the team of neurologists and emergency staff at C. W. Williams Community Health Center is here to provide rapid, specialized care. For non-emergencies, request an appointment by calling 866-299-4968 or scheduling one here

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