Convulsive syndrome is an unpleasant symptom that can lead to irreversible consequences with untimely assistance. According to the international classifier of diseases, such a condition may have the code R 56.0 or R 56.8. We are not talking about epileptic and epileptic seizures. If you had to come across such a symptom for the first time, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis after a thorough examination.
High temperature cramps
With fever in adults, it is quite rare, but convulsive syndrome still appears (ICD R 56.0). Hyperthermia can result from a dangerous viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Convulsive syndrome in adults, as a rule, develops due to a meeting with a new dangerous microorganism that has not been encountered before. So, with ordinary flu, the likelihood of such symptoms is minimized. Often with infection in a foreign country, convulsive syndrome develops (ICD R 56.0).
Unpleasant symptoms against the background of an increase in body temperature are manifested due to overheating of all body systems, including the brain. The risk of seizures increases when the thermometer reaches 39.5 ° C. Experts recommend not to allow this and take an antipyretic agent before the arrival of emergency care.
It is necessary to call a doctor if, against a background of high temperature, a person has “marbling” of the skin, apathy, dizziness. Significantly increases the risk of convulsive syndrome with fever in allergy sufferers.
Epileptic seizures
Pathological symptoms may develop due to congenital or acquired defects of the nervous system. In an adult, the development of epileptic convulsive syndrome (ICD R 56.8) can provoke:
- head injuries;
- alcohol intoxication;
- strokes
- benign and malignant neoplasms of the brain.
In 40% of cases, the exact causes of seizures cannot be determined. With age, the risk of developing dangerous symptoms increases. At risk are people suffering from alcohol and drug addiction.
Healthy young people rarely develop convulsive syndrome. The causes most often lie in epilepsy, which previously did not manifest itself in any way. This is a brain disease that affects more than 40 million people worldwide. In a third of people who encounter it, the first attack develops even before adulthood. However, in many patients, the pathological process can manifest itself much later.
Causes of Epilepsy
Convulsive syndrome (ICD R 56.8 or R 56.0) is the result of the synchronous excitation of all cells in a single section of the cerebral cortex (epileptic focus). The disease is often inherited. Therefore, if relatives had to face such a pathology, the child must be examined at an early age.
Epilepsy can also be acquired. In a number of patients, convulsive syndrome begins to appear after serious injuries suffered by infectious diseases of the brain (meningitis, encephalitis), and poisoning. Every tenth alcoholic or drug addict suffers from epileptic seizures.
With epilepsy, the convulsive syndrome can manifest itself in different ways. Sometimes there is only a short-term loss of connection with the outside world. Others may think that the patient thought for a second. The syndrome is very fast. But in many cases, convulsive attacks are accompanied by twitching of all muscles, rolling eyes. In this case, it is important to provide the patient with proper help.
First aid for convulsive syndrome
A seizure alone cannot lead to the death of a patient, no matter how scary the clinical manifestations of the pathological process look. Incorrect actions of people who are nearby can provoke the development of complications. Under no circumstances should convulsive movements be restrained. Performing artificial respiration and heart massage is also not necessary.
If an epileptic seizure begins, the patient must be laid on a flat hard surface, a roller from clothes or a small pillow can be placed under the head. To prevent retention of the tongue, the patient's head should be turned on its side. After the cramps, the patient should be allowed to recover normally, get enough sleep. Usually, seizures in epilepsy last no more than 30 seconds. When the seizure is over, you should call an ambulance.
Diagnosis of the disease
If an epileptic seizure occurs for the first time, the patient will be sent for a full examination in the neurological department. An accurate diagnosis will be made by encephalography. To determine the epileptic focus, studies such as CT or MRI can be performed.
Epilepsy treatment
If emergency care for convulsive syndrome was provided correctly, and the patient immediately sought qualified medical help, the likelihood of developing dangerous complications is minimized. Modern medicines can reduce seizures in patients with chronic epilepsy by 70%.
Convulsive syndrome is not a reason for serious limitations. Clinical recommendations relate only to some adjustment of the patient’s lifestyle. The patient will have to give up emotional and severe physical overload. However, it is quite possible to lead a normal life, attend work or an educational institution. Such patients are not forbidden to drive a vehicle.