- Abnormal electrical discharges in the cerebrum of the brain cause periods of abnormal behavior in foals with neonatal epilepsy. Behavior includes involuntary changes in breathing or other autonomic functions, unconsciousness and uncontrolled motor activity in the entire body or just a few body parts.
- Cluster seizures are intense seizure activity over a period of three days, typically before the foal is 3 months old. During this episode, the foal is confused, depressed and unable to nurse or see. The foal may suffer injuries as it falls to the ground during a seizure. Additionally, the foal's eyes can roll back in its head, and it can lose consciousness during a more severe grand mal seizure.
- Diagnosis may be difficult because the foal appears normal between seizures. Researcher Dr. Monica Aleman, of the University of California-Davis, stresses that a foal cannot be considered to have epilepsy unless it has had more than two seizures. Close observation is essential, as some seizures are slight.
- The prognosis for a foal with neonatal epilepsy is favorable because most foals outgrow the condition. However, foals must be protected from injury during seizures.
- During a seizure, people should stand away from the foal to avoid being injured when the foal collapses and kicks out. They should not attempt to calm the foal but should call a veterinarian to examine the foal. A vet can decide whether to administer phenobarbital for seizures that are ongoing. According to Dr. Thomas Gore, a veterinarian, preventive doses of phenobarbital given daily can reduce the amount and severity of seizures in an afflicted foal.
Causes
Cluster Seizures
Diagnosis
Prognosis
Treatment
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