What differentiates a pseudo seizure from an epileptic seizure?

While both types of seizures may look similar, they have key differences in cause, diagnosis, and treatment:

Cause: Epileptic seizures result from sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Pseudo seizures (PNES) are often triggered by psychological stress or emotional conflict, not by brain electrical dysfunction.

Diagnosis: Epileptic seizures are detected through EEG (electroencephalogram), which shows abnormal brain activity. PNES usually show normal EEG patterns, even during an event. A video EEG (simultaneous brainwave recording and video monitoring) is often used for diagnosis.

Physical signs: PNES may include unusual movements like side-to-side head shaking, pelvic thrusting, or crying, which are uncommon in epileptic seizures. PNES events can last longer and may respond to distraction, unlike epileptic seizures.

Treatment: Epileptic seizures are treated with anti-seizure medications. PNES are typically managed through mental health therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rather than medication.

Both conditions are real and deserve proper evaluation and care. A neurologist can help determine the type and best course of treatment.