Epilepsy

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a disorder involving recurring seizures. It may be acquired or congenital. Some dogs acquire seizures three to four months after a brain concussion as a result of scares on the brain.
Three to four weeks after the onset of encephalitis seizures may occur. Typical attacks begin with "champing, tongue chewing, foaming at the mouth, shaking of the head and blinking of the eyes - then a dazed look, and a return to normal."
There are three phases to a typical epileptic seizure. The first is called the aura, it is the onset of sudden apprehension and restlessness. Bizarre behavior, such as sniffing in the corner or snapping the air.
Secondly, is the rigid phase, the dog collapses, the head is thrown back, the dog is slobbering and twitches at the face. The pupils dilate. as this phase begins to pass, the dog makes running movements with all four legs and he may lose control of bowels or bladder.
The final stage is the post seizure phase. The dog is recovering but remains confused and wobbly. If over stimulated by a loud noise, fatigue, excitement, anxiety, bright lights, fever, over breathing, estrus, or rough handling, a second seizure can occur.
The first two phases usually passes within about three minutes. The post seizure state can persist for several hours.
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