Understanding the Difference Between Seizure and Fit
When discussing medical conditions, the terms 'seizure' and 'fit' often come up. However, there is a significant difference in their meanings and usage. In this article, we will explore how 'fit' is an outdated and inappropriate term, particularly for those living with epilepsy, and discuss the types of seizures and their symptoms.
What is Seizure?
A seizure is a medical condition characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This can result in a wide range of symptoms, from minor twitching (mild petit mal seizures) to a complete loss of consciousness and body control (grand mal seizures). Seizures can be caused by various factors, including epilepsy, brain injuries, infections, drugs, and metabolic disorders.
For individuals living with epilepsy, a grand mal seizure is a particularly concerning event. It involves a loss of body control and unconsciousness. However, it is important to note that there are many other types of seizures associated with epilepsy that do not result in loss of consciousness or body control.
Visit the official epilepsy website to learn more about different types of seizures and their symptoms.
Fit: An Anachronistic Term
The term 'fit' is considered antiquated and inappropriate, especially when referring to epileptic seizures. It is a term that was commonly used in the past to describe a seizure, but it has fallen out of favor in modern medical discourse. The use of 'fit' has been linked to a lack of awareness or understanding of the seriousness of the condition.
Personally, as an epileptic, I find the term 'fit' to be bothersome. It often trivializes the experience and makes it sound like a minor inconvenience, similar to a spoiled child crying over a toy at a supermarket. This use of language can be stigmatizing and does not reflect the serious nature of epilepsy and seizures.
I often talk about my experiences with epilepsy, hydrocephalus, and general dystonia on my YouTube channel. To find out more, visit my bio for the link.
Modern Usage of Fit
Today, the term 'fit' is rarely used in the context of epileptic seizures. However, it still persists in other contexts where it refers to sudden, intense reactions or behaviors. Here are some examples of how the term 'fit' is used in modern language:
Apoplectic Fit
The term 'apoplectic fit' was historically used to describe sudden symptoms caused by a stroke or catastrophic hemorrhage. Today, it is often used sarcastically to describe extreme anger. For example:
The boss had an apoplectic fit when he found out his project was delayed again.
Hissy Fit
A 'hissy fit' is another term that is used to describe someone making a fuss or being overly emotional about something trivial. It typically carries a tone of mockery:
She had a hissy fit when her favorite coffee shop ran out of her usual milk blend.
Other Uses of Fit
Historically, 'fit' was also used to describe sudden activities or behaviors, such as:
In a fit of enthusiasm, I bought loads of fabrics and patterns, but I've never got around to doing the sewing.
In a fit of jealous rage, he knocked the guy down, and now he could be facing a manslaughter charge!
The term 'fit' in these contexts does not relate to seizures but rather describes sudden, intense emotional or physical outbursts that can lead to impulsive actions.