From the Guidelines
Seizure symptoms typically include sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness, and may involve temporary confusion, staring spells, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of consciousness, and cognitive or emotional symptoms. According to the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1, first aid providers should be aware of the severity of seizure symptoms to determine when to activate emergency medical services. Seizure symptoms can vary widely, but common symptoms include:
- Temporary confusion
- Staring spells
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Cognitive or emotional symptoms like fear or anxiety
- Physical symptoms such as nausea or a rising sensation in the stomach Some people may experience warning signs before a seizure, called an aura, which might include visual changes, dizziness, or unusual smells or tastes. Seizures can be focal or generalized, with focal seizures affecting one part of the brain and generalized seizures affecting both sides. The guidelines emphasize the importance of seeking medical attention for first-time seizures, seizures lasting more than five minutes, multiple seizures, or if the person doesn't regain consciousness within 5 to 10 minutes after seizure activity stops, as indicated in the 2024 guidelines 1.
From the Research
Symptoms of a Seizure
The symptoms of a seizure can vary depending on the type of seizure and the individual experiencing it. Some common symptoms include:
- Transient signs and symptoms of abnormal, excessive, or synchronous neuronal activity in the brain 2
- Generalized convulsive status epilepticus (GCSE), which is the most dramatic form of status epilepticus 3
- Acute symptomatic seizures, which are often related to a provoking factor or an acute brain insult 4, 2
- Unprovoked seizures, which can be a major life-changing event 5
Types of Seizures
There are different types of seizures, including:
- Partial onset seizures, which can be simple partial, complex partial, or secondary generalized 6
- Generalized onset seizures, which can include tonic-clonic seizures, absence seizures, and myoclonus 6
- Status epilepticus, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention 3
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis and treatment of seizures typically involve:
- A careful history and examination to confirm the diagnosis and identify any underlying causes 3, 4, 2, 5
- Electroencephalography (EEG) and brain imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to characterize the seizure and identify any underlying causes 4, 2
- Antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy, which can be used to treat and prevent seizures 3, 4, 2, 5, 6
- Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggers and taking safety precautions, to reduce the risk of seizures and their consequences 2