17-Year-Old Boy Experiences Seizure After Staying Up Late, Recovers After 3 Days of Observation
Seizures can occur unexpectedly and may be linked to lifestyle factors such as lack of sleep. In this case, a 17-year-old male experienced a seizure episode early in the morning and was rushed to the hospital by his family. He presented with convulsions, clenched jaw, upward eye movement, and loss of consciousness. After undergoing a series of tests including MRI and EEG, he was diagnosed with a seizure disorder. With prompt treatment involving intravenous diazepam, phenobarbital sodium, and oxygen therapy, his condition stabilized. Following three days of emergency observation and six months of outpatient follow-up, no further seizures were reported.
Case Summary
Patient: Male, 17 years old
Diagnosis: Seizure
Hospital: The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University
Date of Visit: July 2021
Treatment: Intravenous sedation with diazepam, phenobarbital sodium, and 30 minutes of oxygen therapy
Recovery Period: Emergency observation for 3 days, outpatient follow-up after 15 days
Outcome: Stable condition, no recurrence of seizures
Initial Assessment
The patient was a 17-year-old student who was brought to the hospital in the morning with ongoing convulsions. His family reported that at around 7:00 AM, they heard unusual noises from his room and found him on the bed experiencing seizures, including body tremors, clenched teeth, upward gaze, and foaming at the mouth—his first known episode. Upon arrival at the hospital, the convulsions had subsided, but he remained unconscious. According to family members, the patient had stayed up late playing video games the night before. Based on the clinical presentation, a diagnosis of seizure was considered. Further neurological tests were recommended to rule out underlying brain conditions, and the family fully cooperated with the medical team.
Diagnostic and Treatment Process
In the emergency department, blood tests were conducted, including complete blood count, liver and kidney function, electrolytes, lipid profile, blood glucose, blood gas analysis, and trace elements. Results showed elevated blood sugar and lipid levels, along with high white blood cell count—possibly due to stress response. No other significant abnormalities were found. A brain MRI revealed no structural issues, but a dynamic EEG showed widespread sharp waves in both cerebral hemispheres, indicating abnormal brain activity.
The patient was treated with intravenous diazepam for sedation and phenobarbital sodium to control seizures. After 30 minutes of oxygen therapy, he calmed down and fell asleep. By the next day, he regained full consciousness.
Response to Treatment
Following administration of sedative and anticonvulsant medications, the patient's condition improved significantly. He remained seizure-free during the 3-day emergency observation period and was discharged without complications. Since this was his first seizure episode, doctors recommended close monitoring for six months. If no further seizures occurred, long-term medication could be avoided. However, if two or more seizures occurred within that time frame, chronic antiepileptic therapy would be necessary. At the 15-day follow-up visit, the patient reported feeling well with no recurrence of symptoms.
Medical Advice and Preventive Measures
While the patient has not experienced any further seizures, continued monitoring for six months is advised. Regular follow-ups with a neurologist are recommended, including blood tests and EEGs to assess brain activity. It is essential to maintain healthy sleep habits, avoid fatigue and emotional stress, and ensure proper rest. Any symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or muscle pain should be monitored closely, as they may indicate hidden seizure activity.
Reflections on the Case
This case highlights the potential consequences of sleep deprivation and overexertion among teenagers. Seizures can lead to transient abnormal brain activity, which may cause ischemia and hypoxia in brain cells. Repeated episodes can result in long-term neurological damage. Although the patient enjoys leisure activities, excessive indulgence—especially in activities that interfere with sleep—should be avoided. A balanced lifestyle that includes sufficient rest, physical exercise, and outdoor recreation is crucial for brain health. For physicians, it is important to conduct thorough diagnostic evaluations to rule out organic brain diseases and prevent misdiagnosis.