12 Common Seizure Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Understanding the symptoms of seizures is crucial for early recognition and proper medical intervention. While many people associate seizures with dramatic convulsions, the reality is that seizure symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and severity.

Seizures affect people of all ages and can occur for various reasons, from epilepsy to underlying medical conditions. Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms can help individuals and their caregivers respond appropriately and seek timely medical care. This comprehensive guide explores the most common symptoms associated with seizures, helping you understand what to look for and when to be concerned.

1. Temporary Confusion and Disorientation

One of the most frequent symptoms following a seizure is a period of confusion and disorientation. During this phase, which medical professionals call the “postictal state,” individuals may appear dazed and unable to respond normally to their surroundings.

This confusion can manifest in several ways:

• Difficulty recognizing familiar people or places
• Inability to recall recent events or conversations
• Trouble understanding or following simple instructions
• Appearing “lost” or bewildered even in familiar environments
• Taking several minutes to hours to fully regain normal mental clarity

The duration of confusion varies depending on the type and severity of the seizure. Some individuals may experience only brief moments of disorientation, while others may remain confused for an extended period. This symptom is particularly common after generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

2. Uncontrollable Jerking Movements

Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs, known as convulsions or myoclonic jerks, are among the most recognizable seizure symptoms. These involuntary muscle contractions can range from subtle twitches to violent shaking movements.

Characteristics of these movements include:

• Rhythmic jerking that cannot be stopped or controlled
• Involvement of one or both sides of the body
• Rapid, shock-like movements that may affect specific muscle groups
• Intensity that varies from mild twitching to forceful convulsions
• Duration typically lasting from a few seconds to several minutes

These movements occur because of abnormal electrical activity in the motor areas of the brain. The jerking may start in one area and spread to other parts of the body, or it may affect the entire body simultaneously. Observers often find these movements alarming, but it’s important to ensure the person’s safety by moving objects away and cushioning their head.

3. Loss of Consciousness or Awareness

Many types of seizures involve some degree of altered consciousness, ranging from brief lapses in awareness to complete loss of consciousness. This symptom can be particularly dangerous if it occurs during activities like driving, swimming, or operating machinery.

Loss of consciousness during seizures may present as:

• Complete unresponsiveness to external stimuli, including loud noises or physical touch
• Inability to communicate or respond to questions
• Blank staring with no apparent awareness of surroundings
• No memory of the episode after consciousness returns
• Sudden collapse or falling without warning

The duration of unconsciousness varies widely. Absence seizures may cause only brief 5-10 second lapses, while tonic-clonic seizures can result in unconsciousness lasting several minutes. After regaining consciousness, individuals may be disoriented and require time to fully recover their normal state of awareness.

4. Staring Spells

Staring spells are characteristic of absence seizures and can be easily mistaken for daydreaming or inattention, especially in children. During these episodes, the person appears to be staring blankly into space without any response to their environment.

Key features of staring spells include:

• Sudden stoppage of activity and motion
• Fixed gaze with no eye movement or blinking
• Lack of response when called or touched
• Brief duration, typically lasting 5-20 seconds
• Abrupt return to normal activity with no memory of the spell
• May be accompanied by subtle movements like lip smacking or eye fluttering

These seizures can occur multiple times throughout the day and may significantly impact learning and daily activities, particularly in school-aged children. Because they’re brief and subtle, staring spells often go unnoticed or undiagnosed for extended periods.

5. Muscle Stiffness and Rigidity

Sudden muscle stiffness or rigidity, known as tonic activity, is a common symptom during certain types of seizures. This stiffness can affect various muscle groups and may cause the person to fall if they’re standing.

Characteristics of seizure-related muscle stiffness include:

• Sudden tensing of muscles throughout the body or in specific areas
• Rigid posture with extended arms and legs
• Arched back position
• Clenched jaw and teeth grinding
• Difficulty breathing due to chest muscle rigidity
• Duration typically lasting from several seconds to a minute

This muscle rigidity occurs during the tonic phase of tonic-clonic seizures and can be quite forceful. The stiffness may be followed by rhythmic jerking movements (the clonic phase). After the seizure ends, muscles gradually relax, and the person may feel extremely fatigued and sore.

6. Unusual Sensations or Auras

Many individuals experience unusual sensations or “auras” immediately before a seizure begins. These auras are actually simple focal seizures that may serve as warning signs of a more significant seizure to come.

Common aura experiences include:

• Strange smells or tastes that aren’t actually present
• Visual disturbances such as flashing lights, geometric patterns, or distorted vision
• Tingling or numbness in various parts of the body
• Sudden feelings of fear, anxiety, or déjà vu
• Auditory hallucinations or hearing strange sounds
• Sensation of butterflies in the stomach or rising feeling in the abdomen
• Overwhelming sense of euphoria or intense emotions

Recognizing these aura symptoms can be valuable, as they provide a brief warning period during which the person can move to a safe location, sit or lie down, and alert others nearby. Not everyone experiences auras before seizures, but those who do often report consistent warning signs each time.

7. Automatic Movements (Automatisms)

Automatisms are repetitive, involuntary movements or behaviors that occur during certain types of seizures, particularly focal seizures. These movements appear purposeful but are actually unconscious actions the person cannot control.

Common automatisms include:

• Lip smacking or chewing motions without eating
• Repetitive hand movements such as fumbling, picking, or rubbing
• Walking or wandering aimlessly
• Repeating words or phrases inappropriately
• Fidgeting with clothing or objects
• Swallowing repeatedly
• Hand wringing or other repetitive gestures

During these episodes, the person is typically unaware of their actions and may continue these automatic behaviors for several seconds to minutes. Observers may initially mistake these behaviors for normal activity, but the repetitive and inappropriate nature of the movements eventually becomes apparent. After the seizure ends, the individual usually has no memory of performing these actions.

8. Temporary Loss of Muscle Control

Atonic seizures, also called “drop attacks,” involve a sudden loss of muscle tone that can cause a person to collapse or drop objects they’re holding. This symptom is particularly dangerous due to the risk of injury from falling.

Features of atonic seizure symptoms include:

• Sudden weakness or limpness in muscles
• Head dropping forward abruptly
• Collapse or falling without warning
• Dropping held objects unexpectedly
• Brief duration, often lasting only a few seconds
• Quick recovery with immediate return of muscle control

Because these seizures occur without warning and cause sudden falls, individuals who experience atonic seizures are at high risk for head injuries and may need to wear protective headgear. The unpredictability of these episodes can significantly impact daily activities and independence.

9. Changes in Breathing Patterns

Alterations in normal breathing patterns are common during seizures and can range from brief pauses to more significant respiratory changes. These breathing changes occur due to the seizure’s effect on the parts of the brain that control respiration.

Breathing-related symptoms during seizures may include:

• Temporary cessation of breathing (apnea) for several seconds
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Irregular breathing patterns
• Making unusual sounds like grunting or gasping
• Bluish tint to lips or face due to reduced oxygen (cyanosis)
• Forceful exhalation causing a cry-like sound at seizure onset

While breathing changes during seizures can appear alarming, breathing typically resumes normally once the seizure ends. However, the postictal period may involve continued irregular breathing as the person recovers. It’s important to monitor breathing and ensure airways remain clear during and after a seizure.

10. Emotional and Mood Changes

Seizures can cause sudden and intense emotional or mood changes that appear without any apparent trigger. These emotional symptoms may occur before, during, or after the seizure event.

Emotional manifestations of seizures include:

• Sudden overwhelming fear or panic without apparent cause
• Unexplained feelings of intense anxiety or dread
• Inappropriate laughter or crying
• Sudden anger or irritability
• Feelings of euphoria or intense happiness
• Sense of detachment or unreality
• Depression or sadness following the seizure

These emotional changes result from abnormal electrical activity affecting the limbic system and other emotion-regulating brain regions. The emotional symptoms can be particularly distressing because they feel genuine and intense, yet have no external cause. Family members and caregivers should understand that these emotional changes are neurological symptoms, not deliberate behaviors.

11. Speech and Language Difficulties

Seizures affecting language centers of the brain can cause various speech and communication problems. These difficulties may occur during the seizure itself or during the recovery period afterward.

Speech-related seizure symptoms include:

• Inability to speak or produce words despite trying (aphasia)
• Slurred or garbled speech
• Repeating words or phrases inappropriately
• Making unusual vocalizations or sounds
• Difficulty understanding spoken language
• Using incorrect words or nonsensical sentences
• Complete muteness during and immediately after the seizure

Language difficulties can be particularly frustrating for individuals experiencing them, as they may be aware of their inability to communicate properly. These symptoms typically resolve as the seizure ends and the person recovers, though some language difficulties may persist for minutes to hours in the postictal state.

12. Extreme Fatigue and Exhaustion

Profound tiredness and exhaustion commonly follow seizures, sometimes lasting hours or even days. This fatigue results from the intense energy expenditure during the seizure and the brain’s recovery process.

Post-seizure fatigue characteristics include:

• Overwhelming need to sleep immediately after the seizure
• Feeling physically and mentally drained
• Muscle weakness and heaviness
• Difficulty concentrating or maintaining alertness
• Extended sleep periods lasting hours
• Gradual energy recovery over hours to days
• General feeling of being “wiped out” or depleted

This postictal fatigue is completely normal and represents the body’s natural recovery process. It’s important for individuals to rest adequately after a seizure and not rush back into normal activities. Attempting to fight through this exhaustion can be counterproductive and may increase the risk of additional seizures.

Common Causes of Seizures

Understanding what triggers seizures is essential for prevention and management. Seizures can result from numerous causes, and identifying the underlying reason is crucial for proper medical care.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is the most common cause of recurrent seizures, affecting millions of people worldwide. This neurological disorder involves recurring seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy can develop at any age and may have genetic components or result from brain injuries.

Brain Injuries and Trauma

Traumatic brain injuries from accidents, falls, sports injuries, or physical assaults can cause seizures immediately after the injury or years later. Scar tissue forming in the brain after trauma can create areas of abnormal electrical activity that trigger seizures.

Stroke and Vascular Problems

Strokes and other conditions affecting blood flow to the brain are leading causes of seizures in adults over 60. When brain tissue is damaged due to lack of oxygen, it can become a seizure focus. Vascular malformations and aneurysms can also trigger seizures.

Brain Infections

Infections affecting the brain, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or brain abscesses, can cause seizures during the acute infection or as a long-term complication. Some viral infections, including herpes simplex virus, are particularly likely to cause seizures.

Metabolic Imbalances

Severe imbalances in blood chemistry can trigger seizures. These include:

• Extremely low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
• Low calcium or magnesium levels
• Kidney or liver failure affecting body chemistry
• Severe dehydration

Brain Tumors and Lesions

Both cancerous and non-cancerous brain tumors can cause seizures by putting pressure on brain tissue or disrupting normal electrical activity. The location and size of the tumor influence the type and frequency of seizures experienced.

Genetic Factors

Some forms of epilepsy have strong genetic components, with certain gene mutations increasing seizure susceptibility. Family history of epilepsy or seizure disorders increases an individual’s risk of developing similar conditions.

Medication Withdrawal or Side Effects

Abruptly stopping certain medications, particularly sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, or alcohol, can trigger withdrawal seizures. Additionally, some medications may have seizures as a potential side effect.

Sleep Deprivation

Severe lack of sleep is a well-known seizure trigger for many individuals with epilepsy and can even cause seizures in people without a seizure disorder. Maintaining consistent sleep patterns is important for seizure prevention.

Fever (Febrile Seizures)

High fevers, particularly in young children between 6 months and 5 years of age, can trigger febrile seizures. While frightening to witness, these seizures are usually brief and don’t typically cause lasting problems.

Prevention Strategies

While not all seizures can be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce seizure risk and frequency for many individuals.

Medication Adherence

For individuals with epilepsy, taking prescribed anti-seizure medications consistently and as directed is the most important prevention measure. Missing doses or stopping medication without medical supervision significantly increases seizure risk. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to medication regimens.

Identify and Avoid Personal Triggers

Many people with seizure disorders can identify specific triggers that increase their seizure risk. Common triggers include:

• Flashing lights or visual patterns (photosensitive seizures)
• Stress and emotional distress
• Alcohol consumption
• Hormonal changes during menstrual cycles
• Certain foods or caffeine
• Missing meals or low blood sugar

Keeping a seizure diary can help identify patterns and personal triggers to avoid.

Maintain Consistent Sleep Schedule

Sleep deprivation is one of the most common seizure triggers. Establishing and maintaining a regular sleep schedule with 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly can significantly reduce seizure frequency. Good sleep hygiene practices include maintaining consistent bedtimes, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding screens before bed.

Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress and anxiety can lower seizure thresholds in susceptible individuals. Stress management techniques that may help include:

• Regular exercise and physical activity
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or tai chi
• Counseling or therapy when needed
• Adequate relaxation and leisure time

Limit Alcohol and Avoid Recreational Drugs

Alcohol consumption, particularly heavy drinking or binge drinking, increases seizure risk both during intoxication and during withdrawal. Recreational drugs can also trigger seizures or interfere with anti-seizure medications. Avoiding these substances is an important prevention strategy.

Wear Medical Identification

While not a prevention measure per se, wearing medical identification jewelry or carrying a medical ID card ensures that emergency responders and bystanders can provide appropriate help if a seizure occurs. This information should include the diagnosis, emergency contacts, and any relevant medical information.

Safety Modifications

Making environmental modifications can prevent injuries if seizures occur:

• Use guards around heaters and radiators
• Pad sharp furniture corners
• Shower rather than bathe, or ensure supervision during baths
• Cook on back burners when possible
• Avoid swimming alone
• Use protective headgear if experiencing drop attacks

Regular Medical Follow-up

Maintaining regular appointments with healthcare providers ensures optimal seizure management, medication adjustments when needed, and early identification of any changes in condition. Regular monitoring helps prevent breakthrough seizures and manages any medication side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a seizure look like?

Seizures can look very different depending on the type. Some involve dramatic convulsions with the whole body shaking and loss of consciousness, while others may appear as brief staring spells, automatic movements like lip smacking, or sudden muscle stiffness. Not all seizures involve falling or shaking—some are subtle and easily missed.

What causes seizures in adults for the first time?

First-time seizures in adults can result from various causes including stroke, brain tumors, head injuries, infections like meningitis or encephalitis, metabolic imbalances, drug or alcohol withdrawal, or previously undiagnosed epilepsy. Anyone experiencing a first seizure should seek immediate medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

What are the warning signs before a seizure?

Warning signs, called auras, may include unusual smells or tastes, visual disturbances like flashing lights, tingling sensations, sudden emotional changes like fear or anxiety, déjà vu feelings, or stomach sensations. Not everyone experiences warning signs, but those who do often report consistent auras before each seizure.

Can you have a seizure without knowing it?

Yes, some seizures are so brief or subtle that individuals don’t realize they’re occurring. Absence seizures cause brief lapses in awareness that may look like daydreaming. Simple focal seizures might cause only subtle symptoms like strange feelings or minor twitching. Others may have seizures during sleep without awareness.

How long do seizures typically last?

Most seizures last between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Absence seizures may last only 5-10 seconds, while tonic-clonic seizures typically last 1-3 minutes. Any seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. The recovery period after a seizure can last from minutes to hours.

Are there different types of seizures?

Yes, there are many seizure types, broadly categorized as focal (starting in one area of the brain) or generalized (involving both sides of the brain from the start). Types include tonic-clonic (grand mal), absence, myoclonic, atonic, tonic, clonic, and various focal seizures. Each type has distinct symptoms and characteristics.

What should you do if someone is having a seizure?

During a seizure, stay calm and keep the person safe. Move objects away from them, cushion their head, turn them on their side if possible, time the seizure, and stay with them until they’re fully alert. Never restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Call emergency services if the seizure lasts over 5 minutes, if another seizure follows immediately, if the person is injured, pregnant, or if it’s their first known seizure.

Can stress cause seizures?

Stress is a common seizure trigger for many people with epilepsy. High stress levels can lower the seizure threshold and increase seizure frequency. However, stress alone doesn’t typically cause seizures in people without an underlying seizure disorder. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce seizure risk.

Are seizures dangerous?

While individual seizures are usually not life-threatening, they can be dangerous due to loss of consciousness and risk of injury from falling or from the environment. Status epilepticus (prolonged seizures) is a medical emergency. Repeated seizures can potentially cause brain damage over time. The unpredictability of seizures also poses risks during activities like driving or swimming.

Can seizures be cured?

The possibility of stopping seizures depends on the underlying cause. Some people with epilepsy become seizure-free with appropriate medication. Others may benefit from surgical interventions if seizures originate from a specific brain area. Some childhood epilepsies resolve with age. However, many people require long-term management. Treatment plans should be discussed with healthcare providers specializing in seizure disorders.

References:

• Epilepsy Foundation – Seizure Types
• Mayo Clinic – Seizures
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke – Epilepsy and Seizures
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Epilepsy
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Seizures
• World Health Organization – Epilepsy