[22F] Experiencing convulsions during sleep with subsequent confusion

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female reported a first-time occurrence of convulsions during sleep, described as continuous spasms lasting about a minute, primarily affecting her arms, legs, and head. The intensity was rated around 6 or 7 out of 10. Following the episode, she experienced significant confusion and was in and out of consciousness due to being partially asleep. She also reported feeling unusually tired and relaxed before the episode. Additionally, she has been experiencing nausea but no sudden muscle weakness or vision changes. The patient is currently taking an iron supplement daily and has no other ongoing medications or known chronic conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

  • Sleep disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or periodic limb movement disorder can cause convulsions or spasms during sleep.

    • Treatment often involves lifestyle changes, medication, or devices to help regulate sleep patterns.
  • Seizure disorders: Conditions like epilepsy can cause convulsions, confusion, and sleepiness. However, seizures are typically followed by a longer period of confusion and fatigue (post-ictal state).

    • Treatment typically involves medication to control seizures.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that can cause diarrhea and nausea. It's usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a neurologist or a sleep specialist for further evaluation.
  2. Keep a sleep diary. Note down when you go to bed, when you wake up, and any unusual occurrences during the night.
  3. Stay hydrated and eat bland foods like rice, bananas, and toast to help manage your diarrhea and nausea.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your convulsions become more frequent or severe.
  • You experience a loss of consciousness.
  • Your diarrhea and nausea persist for more than a few days or are accompanied by severe abdominal pain or blood in your stool.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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7 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common causes of convulsions during sleep?

Common causes of convulsions during sleep include sleep disorders like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and periodic limb movement disorder, as well as seizure disorders such as epilepsy.


How can I differentiate between a seizure and a sleep disorder?

Seizures often involve a post-ictal state with prolonged confusion and fatigue, while sleep disorders may cause spasms without such a state. A healthcare provider can help differentiate through tests and evaluations.


What lifestyle changes can help manage sleep disorders?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage sleep disorders include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and managing stress.


When should I seek medical attention for nausea and convulsions?

Seek medical attention if convulsions become more frequent or severe, if there is a loss of consciousness, or if nausea persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by severe symptoms like abdominal pain or blood in the stool.


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2 Comments


Leo#3962

7 mo ago

It's possible this was a seizure. Did you do anything before that could've provoked it? For young people, a single seizure is often not considered concerning if it was provoked, for example by sleep deprivation or substance use or stress, etc

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Anonymous#23695

7 mo ago

Yeah I've been stressing and not sleeping well

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