Neurons also create special substances, neurotransmitters, which when released, act on the membranes of nearby cells. Neurotransmitters may act to excite or inhibit nearby cells. Normal transmission of information requires a finely tuned combination of excitement and inhibition. A seizure reflects the results of too much excitation, too little inhibition or neurons that are too sensitive to the neurotransmitters. A normal brain responds with enough inhibitory neurotransmitters to stop the spread.
Seizures are often self-limiting as the renegade neurons exhaust themselves and stop firing.
The period after the seizure may reflect lower than normal activity among the neurons. A seizure consists of three parts, the aura , the ictus and the postictus . The aura signals the beginning of the seizure. It is characterized by behavioral changes such as whining, restlessness, hiding or apprehension. During this stage, abnormal electrical discharges are taking place among the neurons.