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A seizure is considered complex when it affects a person's awareness or consciousness. The current medical terminology refers to these as "focal onset impaired awareness seizures." During these episodes, a person may appear confused, unresponsive, or unaware of their surroundings.

Complex seizures can involve various Show Full Answer

A seizure is considered complex when it affects a person's awareness or consciousness. The current medical terminology refers to these as "focal onset impaired awareness seizures." During these episodes, a person may appear confused, unresponsive, or unaware of their surroundings.

Complex seizures can involve various symptoms including:
• Inability to speak or understand language
• Sudden emotional changes like fear or panic
• Sensory disturbances (hallucinations, strange tastes/smells)
• Changes in involuntary body functions (heart rate, breathing)
• "Freezing" or stopping ongoing activities The point of origin for these seizures is typically focal, meaning they start in one specific area of the brain. However, what makes them "complex" is specifically the impairment of awareness, regardless of other symptoms that may occur during the seizure episode.

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Types of Focal Seizures

Why Did Terms for Seizures Change?