Seizures as a Symptom of Addiction

During the compulsive consumption of illicit substances that characterise an addiction, one faces many risks. One such risk is a seizure, which happens as a result of an overt consumption of harmful substances, and is a strong symptom related to addiction.

A seizure happens as a result of uncontrollable electrical activity in the brain, and is characterised by minor ticks or movements, violent and uncontrollable convulsions of the body, and/or loss of consciousness.

The nature and violence of seizures are usually determined by the parts of the brain in which the abnormal electrical activities occur, which is, in turn, determined by the event which triggered the seizure. In those addicted, these seizures are often triggered by the substance they are taking.

What are the Drugs That Influence Seizures?

Cocaine and other related stimulants are a major instigator of seizures. These drugs directly cause seizures as soon as they are taken, or can lead to them within mere minutes or hours.

What Do I Do If I Have Had a Drug-Related Seizure?

The first, and most important thing, to do is to contact a doctor. Once this is done, it is necessary to make a note of the substances that were taken in the period leading up to the seizure. A lot of sufferers keep a journal for this very purpose.

For those who have already had seizures before, it is important to note that any, and all, kinds of drugs can potentially trigger seizures. Once a person has had a seizure, the possibility of having another increases dramatically. For those who have epilepsy or another condition that leads to seizures, complete abstinence is sometimes the only viable solution.

What Do I Do When I See Someone Having a Seizure?

Here are some recommended steps to follow if someone around you is having a seizure:

• Stay calm
• Call an emergency medical service
• Do not attempt to hold down or restrain the person in any way
• Clear the area around the person of anything potentially dangerous that could cause them harm
• Remove anything on the person that could cause them harm such as glasses, neck ties, or particularly tight clothing
• If possible, roll the person onto their side to prevent vomit or mouth foam from obstructing their breathing
• Place a pillow, cushion, or something soft under their head
• AVOID putting anything in the person’s mouth, it will only do them harm
• Stay within a safe distance of the person until the seizure passes