Seizures

Re: Seizures

Anthony Todd — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:26:55 GMT

Look at the thread on status epilepticus

Re: Seizures

Zita Okarina — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:33:23 GMT

Hi Mark,

Usually when the patient with seizure case, we check the history and will do full blood test/ biochemistry, especially liver and kidney. Then we can move to another diagnose. But so far, with epilitic patient, we give phenobarb and continuously add potassium bromide dose. Regular check-up is a must.

If poisoned-case, they will come with seizure and especially with drooling. In that case, we need to put on drips and so on.

Zita

Re: Seizures

Mark Stewart — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:16:09 GMT

Thanks Matthew,

Like you I have never found anything unexpected on a post fit blood test unless dealing with a known diabetic, bob martin or renal case etc.

Mostly I work at an out-of-hours clinic, where we advise clients on the phone for the couple of minutes until the fit ends (or not, in which case they have to attend urgently). We then offer an appointment but our costs usually deter them from attending since their pet appears to be normal again! It has been my experience that animals fit more when bundled into a car and driven frantically to the surgery.

We usually advise to turn off the TV, radio etc and remove hard obstacles then wait quietly until the fit stops. Once the animal regains full awareness, they can go to comfort it and tidy up. However, I have heard some say that you should talk to them and try to stimulate them to prevent further fitting?

Re: Seizures

ms1083 — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:31:04 GMT

9 times out of 10 the fit has stopped by the time the client contacts us in animals that have not had a fit before. They also tend to want to have a check up ASAP. I have yet to find anything clinically wrong with one of these animals in this situation. Generally we check full biochemistry/heamatology but unless the fit happens again and continues to return then do not start any treatment. When i do start treatment normally start on phenobarb alone and only add potassium bromide if required. I do normally give these owners a tube of rectal diazepam to use if the seizure returns. Also, I ask the owners to keep a diary - it is amazing how many owners of epilitic animals seem to think that the condition is well controlled when their animal has 3 fits/week!!!

Have also had a few animals with seizuring history or chronic medical condition having fits, also if there is a possibility of poisioning etc - these I tend to see at the practice ASAP. Whilst the nurse asks about history I check vital signs, blood glucose, electrolites and place an IV catheter. If required I use midazolam or diazepam to reduce the seizure and occasionally start propofol infusions on syringe driver (more common with cats with pyrmethrin poisioning.

All the vets in the practice do different things though - as there seem to be so many differences obviously no one has the correct answer! Interesting to hear from other people