"Psychomotor epilepsy" is a term introduced in the 1940s that describes the same form of epilepsy known as temporal lobe epilepsy. Dogs can develop this kind of epilepsy with similar symptoms and causes as those observed in humans with epilepsy.
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Causes
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Temporal lobe epilepsy is most commonly caused by scar tissue, or lesions, in the temporal lobe of the brain. These lesions could occur of their own accord, or they could be due to a head injury.
Partial Seizures
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During a partial epileptic seizure, a dog may become unresponsive, stare or seem generally absent. Drooling may occur, or your dog may exhibit uncontrollable motions such as tongue quivering.
Convulsive Seizure
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During a "grand mal" seizure, also known as tonic-clonic, a dog will often fall to the floor and shake or convulse. Incontinence may also occur.
Response
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If your dog has an epileptic seizure, make sure the area is safe (no danger of falling, burning or sharp objects), and remove other pets from the area so the dog suffering the seizure can be as safe and relaxed as possible. Turn off anything that makes noise, and cushion the epileptic dog with blankets until the seizure is over. Seek emergency veterinary help for a first seizure lasting more than five minutes, or if the dog suffers consecutive seizures without regaining consciousness.
Medication
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If a dog is experiencing more than one seizure per month, most vets will want to medicate with anti-epileptic medications. These work to control, reduce or eliminate seizure activity.
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