It generates headlines when one of our political figures gets sick. On Saturday, May 17, 2008, Senator Ted Kennedy experienced a
seizure. As a result, he was transported by medical helicopter to Harvard Medical School’s home base, Massachusetts General
Hospital, and made a brief stop at Cape Cod Hospital. Doctors revealed on May 20, 2008, that a tumor had been found to be the
reason behind the seizure. Senator Kennedy was diagnosed with a malignant glioma of the parietal lobe of his brain based on tissue
samples obtained during the biopsy. On August 25, 2009, Senator Kennedy, then 77 years old, passed suddenly in his Hyannis Port,
Massachusetts, residence due to a malignant glioma tumor.
When the brain becomes agitated and aberrant electrical firings disrupt regular brain activity, seizures happen. The particular location
of the electrical short circuits will influence whether abnormal physical findings are observed, and typically, the patient becomes
momentarily unconscious. There may be jerking or rhythmic shaking if they affect the area of the brain responsible for movement.
There may only be a little absence or spell of staring during the seizure. The patient may get an aura ahead of time alerting them to the
impending seizure. A post-ictal or recovery period could occur, during which the patient gradually resumes regular activities as the
brain heals itself. Seizures come in a variety of forms, and a neurologist will eventually become involved.
The history of the incident, a physical examination, and a review of any possible risk factors for a seizure are the first steps in the
patient’s initial evaluation. Assuming that this is typical, screening blood tests are performed, which include tests for renal function,
electrolytes, glucose, and a complete blood count. An EKG and heart monitor may show irregular heart rhythms, and a CT scan of the
brain will search for any bleeding or tumors. Consideration may be given to lumbar puncture if infection is suspected.
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