What are psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES)?
PNES is part of a group of conditions called functional neurological disorders. These conditions arise from the way the brain processes information, rather than from disease.
PNES are epileptic-like seizures that are caused by psychological distress, rather than electrical activity in the brain.
What causes PNES?
PNES is thought to be a physical response to a combination of psychological and physical stressors.
- Psychological factors, such as suffering abuse or PTSD, anxiety or stress, combined with an inability to cope with these difficult experiences. This is the primary cause of PNES.
- Physical factors, such as a head injury, migraine or chronic pain. Other conditions such as heart disease and diabetes are also found in patients with PNES.
- Environmental factors, such as family conflict, addiction, or traumatic life events, may increase the likelihood of stress disorders.
What are the symptoms of PNES?
A PNES seizure will present the same symptoms as an epileptic seizure, these include:
- A change in consciousness, varying from a brief moment of brain fog, to a complete loss of consciousness
- Involuntary limb movements, ranging from short term paralysis to intense thrashing and jerking
- Changes to the voice, causing a range of noises and unrecognisable words, or even complete silence
- Loss of bladder control
- Tongue biting
Seizures can have any combination of the above and will vary from a minor daze to a full on unconscious episode.
