How common is first-time seizure in brain metastases?

A seizure happens when electrical activity in the brain becomes disrupted. It can involve shaking, stiffening, staring, loss of awareness, unusual sensations, confusion, or a period of sleepiness afterwards. Brain metastases can cause a seizure when they affect or irritate brain tissue.

A first seizure does not identify its cause on its own. Clinicians consider the description of the episode, medicines and medical history, then may arrange brain imaging and other tests to find the reason and plan care.

Call emergency services for a first seizure. Stay with the person, move dangerous objects away, cushion their head if possible, and turn them onto their side once the movements have stopped. Time the episode if you can.

Do not restrain the person or put anything in their mouth. Afterward, do not leave them alone until they are awake and able to communicate safely.

Emergency help is needed if the seizure does not stop, another seizure follows before recovery, breathing is difficult, an injury occurs, or the person remains unresponsive. Seek urgent care after any first seizure, even if recovery seems complete.

Ask what may have triggered the seizure, which tests are planned, and whether medicine is needed to reduce further episodes. Also ask about driving, bathing, working at heights, and when it is safe to resume usual activities.