Question 1

What is Seizures?

Accepted Answer

Seizures are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that cause temporary disturbances in movement, behavior, sensation, or consciousness. They are caused by disrupted neurotransmitter function from factors including severe vitamin B6 deficiency, which affects GABA production and brain electrical stability. The Vitamin B6 test is the most important test for identifying this treatable nutritional cause of seizures.

Question 2

What causes seizures?

Accepted Answer

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain that disrupts normal neurotransmitter function. Specific causes include severe vitamin B6 deficiency (especially in infants), electrolyte imbalances like low sodium or calcium, metabolic disorders, infections such as meningitis, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic conditions. In some cases, the exact trigger remains unknown, which is why blood testing helps identify treatable underlying factors like nutritional deficiencies.

Question 3

What is the best test for seizures?

Accepted Answer

The Vitamin B6 test is the most important blood test for seizures because it detects deficiencies that directly affect neurotransmitter production, particularly GABA, which regulates brain electrical activity. Severe B6 deficiency can cause seizures that do not respond to standard anti-seizure medications until the deficiency is corrected. This test is especially critical for newborns and infants experiencing unexplained seizures. Additional metabolic panels may be recommended to check electrolyte levels like sodium, calcium, and glucose that can also trigger seizure activity when imbalanced.

Question 4

When should I get tested for seizures?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you or your child experiences unexplained seizures, especially in infancy or early childhood. Testing is crucial when seizures do not respond well to standard medications, when there is no clear cause identified through neurological examination, or if seizures are accompanied by developmental delays or feeding difficulties. Early blood testing can identify treatable nutritional deficiencies like vitamin B6 deficiency and prevent future episodes.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of seizures?

Accepted Answer

Seizure symptoms vary widely depending on the type and severity. You might notice temporary confusion, staring spells, uncontrollable jerking movements of arms and legs, loss of consciousness, muscle stiffness, or sudden falls. Some people experience unusual sensations like tingling, strange tastes or smells, or emotional changes before a seizure begins. In infants, seizures may appear as repetitive movements, staring, lip smacking, or sudden body stiffening that differs from normal baby movements.

Question 6

Who is at risk for seizures?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can experience seizures, but certain groups face higher risk. Newborns and infants are vulnerable to seizures from vitamin B6 deficiency, birth complications, or metabolic disorders. People with family history of epilepsy, those who have experienced head trauma or brain infections, and individuals with metabolic conditions face elevated risk. Premature infants, children with developmental disorders, and those with severe nutritional deficiencies are also at increased risk for seizure activity.

Question 7

What happens if seizures are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated seizures can lead to serious complications including repeated episodes that increase in frequency and severity. Prolonged seizures can cause brain damage, developmental delays in children, and life-threatening status epilepticus where seizures do not stop. You risk physical injuries from falls during episodes, cognitive impairment over time, and reduced quality of life. When seizures result from treatable causes like vitamin B6 deficiency, delayed diagnosis means unnecessary suffering and potential permanent neurological damage that could have been prevented.

Question 8

Can seizures be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot diagnose seizures themselves, but they are essential for identifying underlying causes that trigger seizure activity. The Vitamin B6 test, along with metabolic panels checking electrolytes, glucose, calcium, and magnesium levels, helps pinpoint treatable factors contributing to seizures. Blood testing works alongside neurological examinations, EEG brain wave monitoring, and medical history to provide a complete picture. Identifying nutritional deficiencies or metabolic imbalances through blood work often leads to targeted treatments that stop seizures.

Question 9

How are seizures treated?

Accepted Answer

Seizure treatment depends on the underlying cause. When blood tests reveal vitamin B6 deficiency, supplementation often stops seizures completely, especially in infants. Anti-seizure medications like levetiracetam, valproic acid, or lamotrigine help control electrical activity in the brain for most people. Correcting electrolyte imbalances, managing blood sugar levels, and treating infections addresses metabolic causes. Some people benefit from dietary changes like the ketogenic diet, while others may need surgery or nerve stimulation devices for medication-resistant seizures.

Question 10

How can I prevent seizures?

Accepted Answer

Preventing seizures involves addressing controllable risk factors and maintaining overall health. Ensure adequate vitamin B6 intake through diet including fish, poultry, potatoes, and fortified cereals, or take supplements if deficient. Avoid seizure triggers like sleep deprivation, excessive stress, flashing lights, alcohol, and missed medications. Maintain stable blood sugar levels by eating regular meals, stay hydrated, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes. For those with diagnosed epilepsy, taking prescribed medications consistently is the most effective prevention strategy.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with seizures?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches can support seizure management alongside medical treatment but should never replace prescribed medications. Ensuring adequate vitamin B6 through diet or supplementation is crucial, especially for deficiency-related seizures. The ketogenic diet, high in fats and very low in carbohydrates, has proven effective for some people with epilepsy. Regular sleep schedules, stress reduction through meditation or yoga, and avoiding known triggers help reduce seizure frequency. Magnesium supplementation may benefit those with deficiencies, and some people find herbal remedies like valerian root helpful, though you should always consult your healthcare provider before trying supplements.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Seizures Blood Test

What is Seizures?

What causes seizures?

What is the best test for seizures?

When should I get tested for seizures?

References

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