Understanding the Bidirectional Relationship Between PTSD & Seizures
Understanding the Connection Between PTSD and Seizures
Trauma can profoundly impact both the mind and body, potentially leading to PTSD and seizures. While epileptic seizures result from abnormal electrical brain activity, non-epileptic seizures (NES), or psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), are triggered by psychological factors.
This blog explores the intricate relationship between PTSD and seizures.
Causes of epileptic seizures
Epileptic seizures stem from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, often due to genetics or physical trauma, such as a head injury or a stroke. Currently, there are no known cures for this disorder and medication is the main course of treatment.
Causes of Non-epileptic Seizures (NES)
In contrast, non-epileptic seizures (NES) result from psychological or emotional distress. It is important to differentiate betwen epileptic and non-epileptic seizures because the treatment course will be different. Often, people will get misdiagnosed with epilepsy and receive ineffective treatment. Up to 30% of patients initially diagnosed with epilepsy were found to later have non epileptic seizures. This is a disservice because non epileptic seizures do not use anti-seizure medication (ASM) as a form of treatment, unless epilepsy is already present. In that case, it may be recommended by your doctor to continue taking ASM for your epilepsy.
I would urge you to receive a second and or third opinion regarding something as important as your brain health and treatment. If you are unsure of what qualifications to look for in your doctor or professional, refer to this resource: how to choose the right doctor to medicate your mental health
Other names for non epileptic seizures
NES: Non Epileptic Seizures
NEAD: Non Epileptic Attack Disorder
Functional Seizures
Dissociative Seizures
Psychogenic Seizures
PNES: Pychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures
Pseudoseizures
There are many names that refer to non-epileptic seizures. This comprehensive list of names can all be used interchangeably. The only term that is not as widely used anymore is pseudoseizures because of its negative implications. Non epileptic seizures are not fake or self-induced. It is purely a subconscious manifestation because of the high degree of emotional or mental trauma. Think of it like your body's coping mechanism.
Does PTSD Cause Seizures?
PTSD can indeed cause seizures, particularly PNES. These seizures are not due to epilepsy but rather psychological distress. Trauma from PTSD can result in the brain's misfiring, leading to seizure-like episodes. PTSD-induced seizures, or psychogenic seizures, often manifest in individuals who have experienced significant psychological trauma, such as abuse, serious fights, combat, or sever bullying.
Such traumatic experiences can cause PTSD and/or seizures. In either cases, it is your bodies reaction to an overload of stress that has no other means of coping. Think of both PTSD and non epileptic seizures as a strategy that your body uses to deal with trauma.
PTSD Seizure Disorder & its Symptoms
PTSD seizure disorder can present symptoms similar to epilepsy, such as convulsions and loss of consciousness. However, they are rooted in psychological stress. Common symptoms include:
Flashbacks
Hyperventilation
Panic attacks
Memory loss
Dissociation
During a seizure, people can forget that it happened and how they were acting. They may often cry and scream in a fit of rage or pain and have no recollection of it. Forgetting the episode is the brains way of blocking out the traumatic memory as a response to its trigger. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Bidirectional Relationship
The relationship between PTSD and seizures is bidirectional. While PTSD can lead to seizures, the experience of having seizures can also exacerbate PTSD symptoms. This cycle can create significant distress, making management essential.
If you are experiencing both PTSD and seizures, the best area to start in is understanding your triggers and responses to triggers. Even if you may not remember your seizures or even the source of your trauma, you can still begin to study what physical situations, what emotional state and even what times of day lead to your seizure episodes.
Conclusion
Understanding the complex relationship between PTSD and seizures is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. PTSD can lead to non-epileptic seizures (NES), which are rooted in psychological distress rather than abnormal brain activity. Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD-induced seizures, such as flashbacks, hyperventilation, and memory loss, helps in identifying and managing this condition. The bidirectional nature of PTSD and seizures means that managing one can alleviate the other. For detailed techniques on managing seizures, read Techniques to Manage Non-Epileptic Seizures Caused by PTSD.
Ready for real transformation through coaching from someone who’s lived through PTSD and has now overcome? Contact Coach Dee today.
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About the Author: Coach Dee
Deborah Park, known as Coach Dee, is the owner of Drip Training LLC and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach. With a background in architecture and kinesiology from the University of Virginia, she has extensive experience in personal training and athletic coaching in a clinical (physical therapy) setting. Coach Dee combines her scientific knowledge with years of hands-on experience and generational knowledge of food as medicine to create programs that empower clients to regain control over their bodies and minds.
Her journey into personal training was deeply influenced by her personal struggles, including recovering from a life-changing car accident that led to PTSD and pain from scoliosis. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the connection between mental health and physical well-being. Coach Dee is committed to helping clients develop resilience, build strength, and rediscover their confidence—no matter the challenges they face.
