Yes, epilepsy can cause imbalance and lightheadedness. These sensations can occur as part of a seizure itself, before a seizure (known as an aura), or after one (called the postictal phase).
Here are some ways epilepsy can contribute to these feelings:
- During a seizure – Some seizures directly affect balance and Show Full Answer
Yes, epilepsy can cause imbalance and lightheadedness. These sensations can occur as part of a seizure itself, before a seizure (known as an aura), or after one (called the postictal phase).
Here are some ways epilepsy can contribute to these feelings:
- During a seizure – Some seizures directly affect balance and coordination, making you feel unsteady or dizzy
- Postictal effects – After a seizure, it's common to feel disoriented, weak, or lightheaded for minutes to hours
- Medication side effects – Some anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) can cause dizziness and balance issues as a side effect
- Anxiety – Living with epilepsy can trigger anxiety, which itself can cause lightheadedness
If these symptoms are new or getting worse, it's really worth bringing them up with your neurologist. They can help figure out whether it's seizure-related, medication-related, or something else entirely worth addressing.
Keeping a symptom diary noting when the dizziness or imbalance happens — before, during, or after a seizure — can be really helpful information to share at your next appointment.
May 14
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