This article explores common signs and symptoms of seizures, detailing various types and warning indicators. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is crucial for effective medical intervention and safety. It emphasizes the importance of immediate healthcare response during seizure episodes to prevent complications.

Seizures are events caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, resulting in physical symptoms such as sudden body jerks or intense shaking movements.

The intensity of seizure manifestations can range from mild to severe. It is vital to take all seizures seriously, as even mild episodes might indicate underlying health concerns. Prompt medical attention should be sought immediately when seizures happen.

Types of Seizures

Non-epileptic seizures – Triggered by brain injuries like head trauma. Typically treatable and less likely to recur after proper care.

Partial seizures – Also known as focal or Jacksonian seizures, they originate in one brain area, affecting only one side of the body. Common in epilepsy patients.

Generalized seizures – Impact both brain hemispheres, causing widespread symptoms such as muscle rigidity, fainting, or falls. Subtypes include:

Tonic-clonic (Grand Mal) – Full-body stiffening and jerking, lasting up to 3 minutes, often with loss of consciousness and breathing difficulties.

Clonic – Rhythmic jerking of face or limbs.

Tonic – Muscle stiffening resulting in falls.

Atonic – Sudden limpness leading to falls, lasting around 15 seconds, possibly recurring.

Myoclonic – Brief muscle jerks as if shocked.

Absence (Petit Mal) – Common in children under 14, characterized by short staring spells and detachment from surroundings.

Common signs of seizures include:

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Sudden feelings of fear or anxiety

Visual disturbances

Dizziness

Full-body jerks

Unusual sensations

Headaches

During a seizure, signs may involve:

Confusion or loss of consciousness

Intense muscle spasms

Falls

Foaming at the mouth and strange tastes

Cheek or tongue biting

Clenching of teeth

Eye twitching

Incontinence

Sudden mood swings

Unusual sounds

In newborns, seizures might show as:

Facial movements

Involuntary eye movements

Extended staring episodes

Leg or arm jerking

Breathing irregularities

Muscle stiffening

Seizures may sometimes resemble other conditions like fainting, migraines, tics, or mood swings. Immediate medical evaluation is essential if seizure symptoms appear, especially if episodes last over five minutes, breathing stops, or injuries occur. Seek urgent care if seizures occur for the first time or the symptoms worsen.