What are pseudoseizures?

Pseudoseizures, also known as psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), are events that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, they typically arise from psychological factors and can occur in individuals who may be experiencing stress, trauma, or other emotional distress. This means that while the movements and symptoms might mimic those of epileptic seizures, the underlying cause is fundamentally different.

The understanding of pseudoseizures is important in distinguishing them from true epileptic seizures, which have identifiable neurological origins. Recognizing that these episodes stem from psychological issues rather than a physical or neurological disorder is crucial in determining appropriate treatment and management strategies. Treatment often focuses on addressing the psychological factors contributing to the seizures, such as through therapy or counseling, rather than traditional seizure medications, which would be ineffective in this case.