What are the common causes of hand cramps. How can you alleviate hand pain at home. When should you seek medical attention for hand cramps. What are the best exercises to prevent hand cramping.

Understanding Hand Cramps: Symptoms and Underlying Mechanisms

Hand cramps are a common yet often misunderstood condition that can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities. These cramps typically result from muscle spasms or injuries, leading to involuntary muscle contractions that prevent relaxation. The intensity of hand cramps can range from mild discomfort to excruciating pain, making it essential to understand their root causes and potential remedies.

The process of muscle contraction involves a complex interplay between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. Under normal circumstances, the brain sends signals through the spinal cord to initiate muscle contraction. Chemicals and proteins within the muscle fibers then interact to cause shortening and relaxation. When this process is disrupted, muscle spasms and cramping can occur.

Key Symptoms of Hand Cramps

• Involuntary muscle contractions
• Intense muscle pain
• Difficulty relaxing the affected muscles
• Muscle twitching
• Stiffness in the hands and fingers

Common Causes of Hand Cramps: From Electrolyte Imbalances to Chronic Conditions

Hand cramps can be triggered by various factors, ranging from temporary imbalances to underlying medical conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.

Electrolyte Imbalances and Dehydration

Electrolytes play a vital role in muscle function, and an imbalance can lead to hand cramps. Which electrolytes are most important for preventing muscle spasms? Calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium are crucial for proper muscle function. Dehydration can exacerbate electrolyte imbalances, making it essential to maintain adequate fluid intake, especially during physical activity or in hot weather.

Overuse Injuries and Writer’s Cramp

Repetitive motions and prolonged periods of fine motor movements can lead to overuse injuries, commonly known as writer’s cramp. Activities that increase the risk of developing these injuries include:

• Extended periods of writing or typing
• Playing musical instruments
• Using excessive grip on tools or utensils
• Excessive wrist flexion or finger extension

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Hand Cramps

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that can significantly impact hand function and contribute to cramping. How does RA affect the hands specifically? RA causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, this can result in decreased joint mobility and increased susceptibility to hand cramps.

Diabetic Stiff Hand Syndrome

Individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes may develop diabetic stiff hand syndrome, a condition characterized by thickened, waxy skin on the hands and limited finger movement. This syndrome can lead to weakened hand joints, diminished hand function, and increased likelihood of hand cramps.

Effective Home Remedies for Hand Cramps

While hand cramps can be distressing, many cases can be effectively managed with home remedies. These strategies focus on addressing the underlying causes and providing relief from symptoms.

Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance is crucial for preventing hand cramps. How much water should you drink daily to prevent dehydration-related cramps? While individual needs vary, aiming for 8-10 glasses of water per day is a good starting point. Additionally, consuming electrolyte-rich foods or supplements can help maintain proper muscle function.

Stretching and Exercise

Regular hand and wrist exercises can improve flexibility and reduce the risk of cramps. Simple exercises include:

1. Finger stretches: Gently pull each finger back towards your wrist
2. Wrist rotations: Slowly rotate your wrists in circular motions
3. Hand squeezes: Squeeze a stress ball or tennis ball
4. Finger taps: Tap each finger to your thumb in sequence

Heat and Cold Therapy

Applying heat or cold to cramping hands can provide relief. Heat therapy can relax tense muscles, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation. Which is more effective for hand cramps? The choice between heat and cold often depends on personal preference and the underlying cause of the cramp. Experimenting with both methods can help determine which provides the most relief.

Medical Treatments for Persistent Hand Cramps

When home remedies prove insufficient, medical interventions may be necessary to address hand cramps effectively. These treatments often target the underlying conditions causing the cramps.

Medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis

For individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biological response modifiers can help manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. These medications work by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system’s response.

Management of Diabetic Stiff Hand Syndrome

Controlling blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing and managing diabetic stiff hand syndrome. In addition to glucose management, physical therapy and targeted stretching exercises can help improve hand function and reduce the risk of cramps.

Occupational Therapy for Overuse Injuries

For individuals suffering from writer’s cramp or other overuse injuries, occupational therapy can be beneficial. Therapists can provide guidance on ergonomic adjustments, hand exercises, and techniques to reduce strain during repetitive tasks.

Preventing Hand Cramps: Lifestyle Changes and Ergonomic Adjustments

Preventing hand cramps often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and ergonomic improvements. By addressing potential risk factors, individuals can significantly reduce their likelihood of experiencing hand cramps.

Ergonomic Workplace Modifications

Creating an ergonomic workspace can help prevent overuse injuries and reduce the risk of hand cramps. What are some key ergonomic adjustments to consider? Important modifications include:

• Using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse
• Maintaining proper posture while working
• Taking regular breaks to stretch and rest your hands
• Adjusting your chair and desk height for optimal arm positioning

Nutrition and Supplementation

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support overall hand health and reduce the risk of cramps. Which nutrients are particularly important for preventing hand cramps? Key nutrients include:

• Magnesium: Found in leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains
• Potassium: Abundant in bananas, sweet potatoes, and avocados
• Calcium: Present in dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, and leafy greens
• Vitamin B complex: Found in whole grains, legumes, and lean meats

In some cases, supplementation may be recommended under the guidance of a healthcare professional to address specific deficiencies.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hand Cramps

While many hand cramps can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Recognizing these scenarios is crucial for preventing potential complications and addressing underlying health issues.

Persistent or Severe Cramping

If hand cramps persist despite home remedies or become increasingly severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Chronic cramping may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical intervention.

Accompanying Symptoms

Hand cramps accompanied by other symptoms may signal a more serious condition. When should you be concerned about additional symptoms? Seek medical attention if hand cramps are accompanied by:

• Numbness or tingling in the hands or arms
• Weakness in the hands or arms
• Swelling or redness in the affected area
• Fever or signs of infection
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

Impact on Daily Activities

If hand cramps significantly interfere with your ability to perform daily tasks or maintain your quality of life, it’s advisable to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can assess the underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Hand Cramp Management

As our understanding of hand cramps and their underlying causes continues to evolve, new treatments and management strategies are emerging. Staying informed about these developments can provide additional options for those struggling with persistent hand cramps.

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox, have shown promise in treating certain types of hand cramps, particularly those related to dystonia or writer’s cramp. How do botulinum toxin injections work for hand cramps? These injections temporarily paralyze specific muscles, reducing involuntary contractions and providing relief from cramping.

Neurostimulation Techniques

Emerging research explores the potential of neurostimulation techniques in managing hand cramps. These methods include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). While still in the experimental stages for hand cramp treatment, these techniques show promise in modulating nerve activity and reducing muscle spasms.

Biofeedback and Mind-Body Techniques

Biofeedback and mind-body techniques are gaining attention as complementary approaches to managing hand cramps. These methods focus on increasing awareness of muscle tension and teaching relaxation techniques to prevent and alleviate cramping. What are some examples of mind-body techniques for hand cramp relief? Practices such as progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, and guided imagery can help reduce muscle tension and improve overall hand function.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hand cramps empowers individuals to take proactive steps in managing this condition. By implementing preventive measures, exploring appropriate remedies, and seeking medical attention when necessary, those affected by hand cramps can significantly improve their quality of life and maintain optimal hand function. As research continues to advance, new and innovative approaches to hand cramp management may offer additional hope for those struggling with this challenging condition.

Symptoms, causes, and home remedies

Hand cramps can occur for many reasons and cause significant discomfort in some people. They are typically the result of muscle spasms or injury.

Often, hand cramps are caused by muscle spasms, which are described as an uncontrollable or involuntary muscle contraction. These spasms or contractions do not allow the muscle to become relaxed and can become excruciating in some cases.

Fast facts on hand cramps:

• Hand cramping can be caused by many conditions.
• Overuse of the hands, fingers, or forearm can cause cramping and pain.
• In many cases, hand cramps can be treated with home remedies.
• Although typically short-lived, these cramps can lead to intense muscle pain.

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Share on PinterestMuscle cramps may be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and overuse injuries

Under usual circumstances, muscle contraction is the result of normal processes within the body including communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the muscles.

Certain chemicals and proteins are also involved in normal muscle contraction and are responsible for the shortening and relaxation of muscle fibers.

The brain is responsible for signaling the muscle to contract through a process of electrical signals and chemical releases.

During the process of muscle contraction, brain signals are sent through the spinal cord and directly to the muscle. Chemicals and proteins interact within the muscle causing muscle shortening and relaxation.

When there is an abnormal interruption in this process of muscle contraction, muscle spasms and cramping can occur. Often, this pain self-resolves within minutes.

Muscle twitching may also accompany muscle spasms or cramps and can be present during periods of resting or in the time following a muscle contraction.

Causes may include:

• electrolyte imbalances
• dehydration
• exercise in high temperatures
• overuse injuries
• diabetic stiff hand syndrome
• arthritis

Electrolyte imbalances

Electrolytes are substances within the body, which are responsible for maintaining normal bodily functions, such as nerve and muscle activity, hydration, blood pH, blood pressure, and tissue repair.

Muscles require a harmonious electrolyte balance to function correctly, and an alteration in these levels can lead to muscle contractions and hand cramps.

For example, vital electrolytes for muscle function include calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium. Changes in these electrolytes can not only cause painful hand cramping due to muscle spasm but can also be life-threatening in certain situations.

Electrolyte imbalances can be caused by several conditions including but not limited to:

• kidney disease
• severe dehydration
• prolonged vomiting from bulimia, pregnancy, or other causes
• excessive heat
• pH imbalances
• congestive heart failure
• cancer treatments
• specific medications for blood pressure or water retention

Treatment for electrolyte imbalances will depend on several factors including the cause and severity of the condition.

Doctors will discuss a detailed plan of care to address this condition.

Overuse injuries

An overuse injury is often called writer’s cramp and may be associated with specific or general movements of the affected muscles that are used in fine motor movements.

Activities that may increase a person’s risk for developing writer’s cramp or an overuse injury include things, such as:

• writing or typing for a long period
• playing a musical instrument
• using an excessive grip on things, such as a pen, utensil, shovel, tools, or smartphone
• excessive wrist flexion
• elevation of the elbow
• finger extension

Rheumatoid arthritis

Share on PinterestRheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint stiffness and joint pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of arthritis in which the body attacks its healthy cells, causing pain in the affected joints and other parts of the body.

Commonly, the hand joints are affected that can lead to symptoms, such as

• joint pain or aching
• joint stiffness, tenderness, and swelling
• weight loss
• fever, fatigue, weakness

Treatment for RA may include medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biological response modifiers called biologicals.

Additionally, joint friendly, low-impact exercises may be beneficial to those with RA and include swimming, walking, and biking.

Diabetic stiff hand syndrome

Those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at risk for developing a condition called diabetic stiff hand syndrome. This condition limits finger movement due to the hands becoming waxy and thick.

Sometimes, those with diabetic stiff hand syndrome experience

• weakened hand joints
• diminished hand function
• finger stiffness and inability to bring fingers together
• thickened, tight and waxy skin on the back of the hand

Controlling blood sugar levels may prevent a person with diabetes from developing diabetic stiff hand syndrome.

Treatment options may include physical therapy, stretching, and exercises that promote hand flexibility and strength, such as throwing and catching a ball.

Prevention of hand cramps depends on the cause of the condition. For example, if dehydration following intense workouts in excessive heat cause hand cramps, consider exercising in cooler temperatures and staying hydrated.

Other ways to prevent hand cramps include:

• stretching adequately
• avoiding dehydration
• practicing muscle strengthening exercises
• undertaking low impact exercises, such as cycling, swimming, or walking
• using the correct hand tools to avoid exerting excessive force

Doctors will have recommendations on preventing hand cramps depending on the specific cause of the condition.

Underlying conditions should be addressed and treated by a qualified professional.

Share on PinterestApplying heat or cold, massaging muscles, and stretching muscles may be recommended home remedies to relieve symptoms of hand cramps.

Home remedies may help relieve symptoms. These include:

• stopping any activity which is causing the hands to cramp
• stretching muscles
• massaging or rubbing the muscles
• applying heat or cold
• taking certain vitamins and supplements may be helpful, although this will depend on the cause and a person’s medical history
• increasing fluid intake

As with any medical condition, evaluation and treatment by a doctor are recommended to treat the underlying cause of the condition. A doctor can also provide recommendations for treatment based on a person’s individual medical and health history.

In most cases of hand cramps, the cause is minor and not life-threatening. However, there are some cases in which hand cramps is due to something more severe, such as Lou Gehrig’s disease, nerve irritation, or other diseases and conditions.

Causes, treatment, symptoms, and more

Injury to the biceps muscle and tendon can lead to bicep pain. A person’s bicep may hurt due to overuse, trauma, and other injuries.

The biceps muscle stretches on the upper arm, between the shoulder and the elbow. However, pain can occur in any part of the upper arm and may not be the result of muscle injury alone.

This article will explore some possible causes of bicep pain. It will also discuss symptoms of each cause and possible treatment.

Overuse or wear and tear of the biceps muscle can lead to biceps tendinitis. Doctors use this term to describe any kind of inflammation of the biceps tendon.

Symptoms

In addition to bicep pain, biceps tendinitis may cause:

• pain at the front of the shoulder or achiness that moves down the upper arm bone
• inflammation of the biceps
• weakness due to pain when lifting items

Causes

Lifting something heavy or engaging in certain types of physical activity, such as sport, can lead to bicep pain. However, repetitive movements are the most common cause.

Sporting activities can result in bicep pain due to the repetitious use of the muscle. This is particularly common in sports that require repetitive overhead motion, including swimming, baseball, tennis, and golf.

Treatment

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend the following at-home remedies to relieve symptoms of biceps tendinitis:

• Rest: A person should rest and avoid activities that can put a strain on the biceps muscle and tendon.
• Ice: A person can apply cold packs to the biceps muscle for 20 minutes at a time, several times per day. This will help reduce the swelling.
• Over-the-counter medication: A person can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, to reduce the pain and swelling that biceps tendonitis causes.
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve symptoms and strengthen the arm and shoulder.

Muscle bruises are one of the most common sports injuries.

Symptoms

A person with a bicep bruise may experience the following symptoms in addition to bicep pain:

• swelling
• stiffness
• weakness
• bluish, bruised coloring
• a lump over the injury site

Causes

Muscle bruises occur when something hits the muscle with force without breaking the skin.

They may occur when a person presses their arm against something during a workout. They could also be the result of a fall.

Treatment

In most cases, muscle bruises will go away on their own. To speed up the healing process, a person can do the following:

• Rest: Avoid using the injured muscle as much as possible.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the bruised area a few times per day for 20 minutes at a time, making sure that the ice is not directly touching the skin.
• Compression: Wrap the upper arm in a bandage.
• Elevate: Keep the arm lifted above heart level.

If a lump has developed over the injury site, a doctor may need to drain it to help the injury heal.

Learn more about bruises here.

The humerus is the bone in the upper arm. A fracture of this bone can result in pain. It may also prevent arm movement.

Symptoms

A person with a humerus fracture may experience the following symptoms in the upper arm and surrounding areas:

• intense pain
• swelling
• stiffness
• a feeling of weakness in the hand or wrist

Causes

A person can indirectly injure their humerus by falling on an outstretched, “locked” arm, which puts too much pressure on the joints and bones.

A person can also injure their humerus by hitting it directly, for example, during a fall or in a car accident.

Treatment

Most humerus fractures do not require surgery. However, it may be necessary for a doctor to immobilize the arm in a cast.

A fractured humerus may take over 12 weeks to heal once a person has sought treatment.

According to some authorities, the closer the fracture is to the elbow, the more likely it is that it will require surgery.

If the fracture is nearer the middle of the arm, there is usually no need for surgery. Treatment in this case may include immobilizing the arm in a cast.

The brachial plexus is a group of nerves in the neck, arm, and hand that are responsible for feeling and movement.

Damage to the musculocutaneous nerve, which runs down the length of the arm, can result in bicep pain and weakness.

Symptoms

In addition to pain, brachial plexus injury can cause the following symptoms in the biceps:

• weakness
• numbness
• severe loss of movement
• pain throughout the arm and hands

Causes

Types of trauma that can cause brachial plexus injury include:

• motorcycle or car crashes
• sports injuries
• wounds from a gunshot
• surgical wounds

Treatment

Brachial plexus injury does not usually heal by itself. However, depending on the severity of the injury, a doctor may recommend:

• Surgery: Types of surgery may include:
  • nerve repairs
  • nerve grafts
  • nerve, muscle, or tendon transfers
• Physical therapy: This treatment can help restore movement to the shoulder joint.

A 2013 study suggests that waiting more than 6 months for treatment can have negative consequences on the effectiveness of the treatment.

Therefore, a person should contact a doctor as soon as possible if they think they have sustained a brachial plexus injury.

A person experiencing bicep pain should seek guidance from a doctor if the pain has not decreased after they have tried at-home remedies, such as resting and icing the affected area.

They should also contact a doctor if the symptoms significantly worsen, for example, if the swelling increases or if the movement of the arm and shoulder becomes increasingly restricted.

A person should seek emergency medical treatment if they experience:

• fever
• dizziness
• shortness of breath
• severe pain

A doctor may carry out a physical exam, which will include inspecting the arm and shoulder for flushed skin, swelling, lumps, or bruising.

They may then test the shoulder and arm for strength and motion. The doctor may move the arm and shoulder in different ways to check the functioning of the biceps muscle.

To reach an accurate diagnosis, a doctor may order additional tests, including:

• X-rays: X-rays use electromagnetic radiation to create images of structures in the body. They may be useful in identifying potential problems with the bones of the arm or shoulder.
• Ultrasound scans: Doctors will use probes that produce sound waves on the skin to create images of bodily structures.
• MRI scan: An MRI scan uses magnets and radiofrequency currents to produce images of structures inside the body.

Bicep pain can have many different causes. These include biceps tendinitis, brachial plexus injury, and fractures.

Symptoms include pain in the upper arm and elbow area and sometimes can radiate to the forearm. Some people experience swelling or limited movement.

At-home remedies focus on resting the affected muscle and limiting stress on the muscle and tendon.

However, a person should seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve after a week or if they worsen.

Treatment of hand spasms in St. Petersburg

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• Treatment of convulsions and spasms
• org/ListItem”> Cramps in the arms

Muscle spasms are a common physiological manifestation affecting almost any skeletal muscle. But traditionally, in the muscles that control two joints at once, spasms occur much more often (for example, cramps in the muscles of the hands). Infrequent symptoms are normal and normal, but frequent symptoms should be treated by a neurologist.

Convulsive manifestations can be of two types:

• Idiopathic, occurring without obvious causes. Usually, it is possible to find and eliminate the cause of such hand cramps quite quickly.
• Secondary, which are symptoms or one of the complications of a certain disease.

To determine the causes of secondary seizures, a patient’s diagnosis is required, on the basis of which a therapeutic effect is selected – as a rule, a complex one. Such treatment includes drug therapy and physical therapy (eg, massage therapy, acupuncture, or manual therapy).

Doctor’s consultation on the treatment of hand cramps:

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Types of cramps in the muscles of the hands

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Update date: 12/17/2021

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Fedosova Svetlana
Narzulloevna

Neurologist, epileptologist
Top category
Experience 37 years

Neurologist, epileptologist, vertebrologist

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Work experience 14 years

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what it is, causes and types, first aid

What are convulsions

Seizures are paroxysmal involuntary muscle contractions accompanied by discomfort and pain.

Most often, cramps occur after excessive exercise or during sleep and mainly affect the lower extremities: calf muscles, hamstring (hamstring), anterior thigh (quadriceps). Less common are cramps in the muscles of the chest, arms, and abdomen.

Seizures usually come on suddenly and last from a few seconds to a few minutes. It can be repeated regularly – in this case, they talk about convulsive syndrome .

In practice, cramps of the calf muscles, popliteal and quadriceps muscles are more common

Types of convulsions

Seizures are classified according to the nature of muscle involvement, prevalence and mechanism of development.

Types of seizures according to the nature of muscle involvement:

• tonic – sharp and prolonged (sometimes up to a minute) muscle contractions, in which the limbs or the whole body seem to “freeze” in a forced position. The body is tense, the back is arched;
• clonic – irregular fast muscle contractions. The person throws his head back, takes his hands back, blinks very quickly. At the same time, the eyes can rotate, and the jaws can make involuntary chewing movements;
• tonic-clonic, or mixed, – alternation of prolonged spasm and rapid contractions of skeletal muscles.

Tonic and clonic convulsions

Type of seizures by group of affected muscles:

• flexor – flexor muscles involved;
• extensor – extensor muscles are involved.

Types of seizures by prevalence:

• partial (focal) – cover one muscle group;
• generalized – affect several muscle groups.

Types of seizures according to the mechanism of development:

• epileptic;
• non-epileptic.

Physiological causes of seizures

Seizures are not always caused by any disease. Sometimes this condition occurs after excessive physical exertion, in women – during pregnancy.

Convulsions after exercise

In healthy people, seizures may occur after intense physical activity. As a rule, the spasm begins in the calf muscle, then spreads to the foot and thigh area.

Most often, seizures in athletes are caused by dehydration. Due to profuse sweating, a person loses a lot of moisture. The water balance in the body is disturbed, and first of all, the brain suffers from this – a person has a severe headache, dizziness, and convulsions.

As a rule, cramps after physical activity are not accompanied by pain and pass on their own – after restoration of water and electrolyte balance

Convulsions during pregnancy

During pregnancy, global changes occur in a woman’s body, which are often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.

In the first trimester, a pregnant woman may experience mild cramps that resemble menstrual cramps. Typically, such muscle contractions are associated with the development of the embryo.

In the second and third trimester of pregnancy, convulsions may be associated with circulatory disorders in the pelvis. The uterus increases in size and begins to compress the inferior vena cava. Avoiding vein compression syndrome is very simple: do not lie on your back. In the vertical position, blood flow normalizes and the condition of the pregnant woman improves rapidly. Another common cause of seizures during pregnancy is a deficiency of trace elements and vitamins (including potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron).

In general, convulsions during pregnancy should not be regarded as a physiological norm. Sometimes this can be one of the manifestations of eclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy.

Febrile convulsions

Febrile seizures usually develop in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. With a sharp rise in temperature to 38-39 ° C, the need for oxygen in the brain increases. Oxygen starvation develops, a convulsive attack begins.

The child may twitch (clonic convulsions) or freeze in a tense position (tonic convulsions). Fortunately, despite the severe clinical picture, febrile convulsions are usually not life-threatening or life-threatening.

Pathological causes of seizures

Depending on the type of seizures – tonic, clonic or tonic-clonic – their causes differ.

Causes of tonic seizures

A characteristic sign of tonic convulsions is a sudden tension in the muscles of the body. For the entire duration of the attack, the person seems to freeze in a forced position, while his teeth are strongly compressed, his torso and legs are extended, and his arms are bent.

Main causes of tonic seizures:

• epilepsy in children is a pathology in which excessive electrical activity occurs in the brain;
• infectious diseases: influenza, parainfluenza, rotavirus and adenovirus infection, tonsillitis, pneumonia, tetanus, rabies;
• fluid and electrolyte disorders: excess potassium or lack of calcium and magnesium in the body;
• endocrine diseases, including diabetes mellitus;
• hereditary metabolic pathologies: leucinosis (maple syrup disease), phenylketonuria, glycogenosis, Gaucher’s disease, Norman-Wood’s disease;
• cardiovascular pathologies, including acute hypotension – a decrease in blood pressure by more than 20% compared to normal indicators;
• renal and hepatic insufficiency;
• hyperventilation syndrome – a condition in which the blood is oversaturated with oxygen;
• alcohol intoxication;
• carbon monoxide poisoning, strychnine;
• drug overdose: neuroleptics, morphine;
• severe overheating or hypothermia.

Tonic convulsions may develop in a child during an epileptic seizure

Causes of clonic convulsions

In clonic convulsions, muscle contraction and relaxation alternate. During an attack, the patient’s arms and legs are usually bent and the body extended. If the spasm affects the respiratory muscles, then the person cannot speak normally, begins to stutter.

Main causes of clonic seizures:

• epilepsy in adults;
• stroke;
• tumors of the spinal cord;
• childhood infections: measles, chickenpox;
• gray matter lesions of the brain: Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis;
• Tay-Sachs disease;
• Down syndrome;
• tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disease that affects the central nervous system;
• poisoning with arsenic, formaldehyde.

Causes of tonic-clonic seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures usually involve three stages. At the first stage, a person experiences strong muscle tension, while his pupils dilate, his eyes may roll back. In the second stage, involuntary convulsions occur. On the third, profuse salivation begins, foam may come from the mouth.

Main causes of tonic-clonic seizures:

• vascular pathologies: stroke (acute cerebrovascular accident), aneurysm (protrusion of the artery wall, arteriovenous malformation) – a condition in which pathologically tortuous vessels appear between arteries and veins instead of a network of capillaries;
• infectious diseases: poliomyelitis, cholera, meningitis, encephalitis;
• arterial hypertension – chronic high blood pressure;
• eclampsia is the most severe form of late toxicosis: a series of convulsions, first tonic, then clonic, which can develop in the second half of pregnancy, during and after childbirth;
• alcohol and nicotine intoxication;
• poisoning with lead, phosphorus, oxalic acid.

Arterial hypertension is one of the possible causes of tonic-clonic seizures

Symptoms that may accompany convulsions

Quite often convulsions are accompanied by other signs of pathology.

Main symptoms that may accompany convulsions:

• severe darkening of the eyes,
• blurred vision,
• confused mind,
• fuzzy speech,
• mimic change,
• tingling in hands and feet,
• blue skin,
• dizziness,
• nausea,
• head tilt,
• feeling of body numbness,
• increased salivation,
• tightly clenched teeth,
• Urinary and fecal incontinence,
• sudden fainting.

If any of these symptoms appear during a seizure, you should immediately consult a doctor.

The most dangerous form of convulsions, an epileptic seizure, is accompanied by nausea, dizziness, numbness of the body and an inexplicable feeling of fear

Diagnostics

If seizures are not occurring for the first time, a physician should be consulted. If the endocrine nature of seizures is suspected, he will refer the patient to an endocrinologist, and to a neurological one, respectively, to a neurologist. If the cause of seizures may be in vascular disorders, the therapist will recommend contacting a phlebologist.

At the appointment, the specialist will collect an anamnesis – draw up a picture of the patient’s complaints, ask about lifestyle and bad habits, and also take an interest in the symptoms that are most disturbing and most often manifest. Then the doctor will conduct an examination and, if necessary, prescribe additional studies.

General and biochemical blood tests will help to assess the state of human health and identify infectious processes.

Complete blood count without leukocyte formula (venous blood)

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If you suspect a lack of calcium (hypocalcemia) or an excess of potassium (hyperkalemia) in the body, the doctor may order targeted studies.

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Comprehensive studies help to exclude or confirm diabetes mellitus – one of the possible causes of seizures.

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Ultrasound – Ultrasound

If you suspect a pathology of the internal organs that could cause convulsions, the doctor may refer the patient to an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, kidneys, thyroid gland.

Ultrasound is a simple, informative and painless method of examination

During the examination, the specialist uses a special device that sends an ultrasound signal to the organ being examined. The signal is reflected and picked up by the sensor. Then the computer processes the received information and displays an image on the monitor – a cross section of the organ.

Ultrasound duplex scanning

Ultrasound is a study that allows you to assess the condition of the vessels of the neck and other parts of the body, as well as detect circulatory disorders.

Thanks to duplex ultrasound, it is possible to diagnose atherosclerosis and thrombosis, as well as other vascular pathologies that can provoke seizures.

During the procedure, the specialist scans the vessels using an ultrasonic sensor. The device reacts to erythrocytes (red blood cells) moving in the blood and sends signals to the monitor, which are then converted into a two-dimensional color image of blood vessels in a section.

The procedure is painless and lasts from 15-20 (if the vessels of the neck are being examined) to 30 minutes (if the vessels of the brain are being examined).

MRI – magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect congenital developmental pathologies, head injuries, neoplasms and epileptic disorders that can cause seizures in humans.

The main advantage of MRI is the absence of radiation, since a harmless magnetic field is used for “transmission”. The examination can be carried out an unlimited number of times, which is convenient for assessing the development of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.

MRI examination of the brain usually lasts 15-20 minutes

CT – computed tomography

Computed tomography (CT) is an “advanced” version of X-ray that takes pictures in layers. The result is not a flat image, but a real three-dimensional model of the organ under study. At the same time, during CT, the patient receives a lower dose of radiation.

CT scan reveals tuberous sclerosis, one of the causes of seizures. In addition, the study well visualizes brain tumors, injuries and anomalies in the structure of the skull bones.

Computed optical tomography of the spine

For seizures of unclear nature, the doctor may order the patient a computed optical tomography of the spine. This study allows you to determine the shapes, sizes and positions of the body bends from a series of photographic images.

The procedure is absolutely painless and takes only 7-10 minutes. As a result, the patient receives a 3D image of the spine at rest and in motion, the conclusion and recommendations of a traumatologist or orthopedist.

Treatment

Regardless of the cause, seizures are considered an acute condition requiring medical attention.

Before visiting a doctor, local cramps can be relieved with the help of self-massage, pinching and muscle stretching. If the patient develops a seizure, you should immediately call an ambulance. Before the ambulance arrives, it is necessary to put a pillow or roller under the person’s head, clean the mouth from foam and mucus, and provide fresh air.

If a patient has a seizure, you should not try to open his teeth with fingers, a spoon or other objects.

Which doctor to contact

General practitioners, endocrinologists, neurologists, surgeons or phlebologists deal with the diagnosis and treatment of convulsive syndrome.

Medical therapy

Depending on the cause of the convulsions, the following groups of drugs may be used for treatment:

• anticonvulsants. Such drugs reduce brain activity, thereby preventing the development of an epileptic seizure;
• electrolytes – help relieve muscle spasm and reduce the level of potassium in the blood;
• antihypertensive drugs – normalize blood pressure;
• diuretics – allow you to eliminate cerebral edema;
• antidotes – allow you to cope with intoxication, chemical poisoning;
• antibiotics and antivirals – treat bacterial and viral infections.

Surgical treatment

If medical therapy fails, surgery may be required.

The main types of operations used to treat convulsive syndrome:

• resection (removal) of part of the temporal lobe;
• hemispherectomy – removal or disconnection of a cerebral hemisphere;
• subpial transsection – excision of the epileptic focus in the area where it borders on healthy brain tissues;
• callosotomy – dissection of the corpus callosum, which transmits nerve impulses from one hemisphere to another;
• thrombectomy – removal of a blood clot from a vessel;
• angioplasty with stenting – surgical restoration of blood flow.

Prophylaxis

In most cases, one-time seizures can be prevented by self-massage and stretching. And you can avoid their repetition by observing the regime of work and rest, eating rationally and giving up smoking and alcoholic beverages.

Basic measures to prevent seizures:

• moderate physical activity. Exercises are best performed under the supervision of a medical specialist or trainer;
• active lifestyle: hiking, cycling, yoga, fitness;
• lifestyle changes. If the work is sedentary, then several times a day it is useful to do a warm-up or light exercises;
• salt restriction, obligatory presence in the diet of vegetables, meat, cereals, dairy products;
• normalization of the drinking regime. It is important to drink as much fluid as the body requires;
• creating a comfortable place to sleep. It is advisable to use an orthopedic mattress with small pillows;
• kneading muscles before going to bed.

Sources

1. Hypoparathyroidism in adults: clinical guidelines / Russian Association of Endocrinologists, Association of Endocrine Surgeons, Russian Society of Head and Neck Tumor Specialists. 2021.
2. Clinical guidelines for the provision of emergency medical care for convulsive syndrome, status epilepticus / Russian Society for Emergency Medicine (ROSMP).