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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How do you know when a seizure is about to start?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Tyler, TX
February 3
 · 
Reactions
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I don’t know when I seizure.
Not everyone does. I have Onset Focal impairment awareness ( AKA complex partial seizures. ) . Meaning I don’t know when I seizure . Sometimes I would experience an after seizure effect.

I may get trembling or twitching in my hands and fingers. Reminds me of a nicotine fit.

I have other times when my Heart would start beating fast and I didn’t even run in a race

February 5 (edited)
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
I have had epilepsy for 34 years and I’ve NEVER known before or after I had a seizure

February 3
MyEpilepsyTeam

How can you tell when a seizure is about to start?

Not everyone experiences warning signs before a seizure, but some people do. These early indicators can vary from person to person.

Some people notice warning signs called a prodrome, which can occur minutes to days before a seizure. These might include
* Headache
* Anxiety Show Full Answer

How can you tell when a seizure is about to start?

Not everyone experiences warning signs before a seizure, but some people do. These early indicators can vary from person to person.

Some people notice warning signs called a prodrome, which can occur minutes to days before a seizure. These might include:
* Headache
* Anxiety
* Confusion
* Irritability or mood changes

Others experience what's called an aura, which is actually the first part of the seizure itself. An aura might feel like:
* A rising feeling in the stomach
* Sudden fear without cause
* A vague sensation that feels familiar and signals a seizure is coming

If you get an aura, you typically have about 30 to 60 seconds of warning. This brief window can allow you to get to a safe place, sit or lie down, or alert someone nearby.

However, many people with epilepsy don't experience any warning signs at all. For them, awareness simply fades without notice.

Keeping a seizure diary can help you identify if you have any patterns or warning signs. Track what happens before each seizure, and share this information with your doctor to better understand your specific seizure pattern.

February 3
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member Its different for everyone but personally the major indicator I have is I basically can't talk.

February 4
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I'm getting scared and there's no reason for it.

February 4

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