One of the main symptoms of the brain condition known as epilepsy is having seizures. However, these can also be caused by a variety of other things. Because of this, it can be difficult to state the 7 warning signs and symptoms of seizures, as the cause of the seizure is such a big determinant factor. In case of epilepsy, however, there are some telltale things to look out for.
The 7 warning signs and symptoms of seizures include:
1. A staring spell
2. Temporary confusion
3. Loss of awareness or consciousness
4. Legs and arms jerking in an uncontrollable manner
5. Psychic symptoms
6. Audible and visual hallucinations
7. Lack of coordination
There are many types of seizures, and how they manifest will depend on the type. That said, people who suffer from seizures will usually have the same type each time. This means that they can learn to recognize what their personal signs and symptoms are, and be on the look out for them. Let's take a closer look at the different types of seizures.
Focal Seizures:
A focal seizure happens when only a part of the brain is affected. There are two types of focal seizures: (1) simple partial seizure, where consciousness is not lost, and (2) complex partial seizure, whereby consciousness is lost. The warning signs for the first include a change in any or all of the five senses, and sensory issues such as tingling and jerking. For the second type of focal seizure, the patient may stare blankly into space and not respond to other people anymore, as well as behave abnormally, such as walk in circles. It is common for these types of seizures to be confused with various other types of neurological disorders, and it is important that a proper diagnosis is made.
Generalized Seizures:
A generalized seizure is one in which every part of the brain is involved. There are six different types that are known:
1. The tonic seizure, whereby the muscles are stiffened, usually in the legs, arms, and back. This generally leads to a fall.
2. The absence seizure, also known as "petit mal", is common in children and involves staring into space and having some small tics.
3. The clonic seizure, whereby the muscles start to jerk in rhythmic, repeated ways, generally in the arms, face, and neck.
4. The atonic seizure, or drop seizure, whereby muscle control is lost in full.
5. The tonic-clonic seizure, or "grand mal", which is an incredibly dramatic seizure, characterized by muscle stiffening, shaking, biting the tongue, etc. It is the type that is most commonly associated with epilepsy.
6. The myoclonic seizure, which tends to be a brief twitch or jerk of the legs or arms.
Each of these eight subtypes of seizures have different warning signs and symptoms. All require a clinical diagnosis. Once patients know which type of seizure they experience, they can learn which of the 7 warning signs and symptoms of seizures to look out for. This means they can better protect themselves by knowing in advance when a seizure is coming. Having a seizure dog can also be of benefit.