Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the type of seizure and the area of the brain affected. Some of the common signs and symptoms of epilepsy include:
- Seizures: The most common symptom of epilepsy is seizures, which can take different forms, including convulsions, staring spells, and repetitive movements. Subtypes include the following:
- Absence seizures. Absence seizures used to be called “petit mal seizures.” They tend to cause a short loss of awareness, a blank stare, and may cause repetitive movements like lip smacking or blinking.
- Tonic seizures. Tonic seizures cause sudden stiffness in the muscles in your legs, arms, or trunk.
- Atonic seizures. Atonic seizures lead to loss of muscle control. They’re also called “drop seizures” because a sudden loss of muscle strength can make you fall suddenly.
- Clonic seizures. Clonic seizures are characterized by repeated, jerky muscle movements of the face, neck, and arms.
- Myoclonic seizures. Myoclonic seizures cause spontaneous quick twitching of the arms and legs. Sometimes these seizures cluster together.
- Tonic-clonic seizures. Tonic-clonic seizures used to be called “grand mal seizures.” Symptoms include:
- stiffening of the body
- shaking
- loss of bladder or bowel control
- biting of the tongue
- loss of consciousness
- Loss of consciousness: In some cases, seizures can cause a loss of consciousness, which can last for a few seconds or several minutes.
- Changes in behavior: Epilepsy can cause changes in behavior, such as confusion, memory loss, and mood swings.
- Sensory changes: Some people with epilepsy may experience sensory changes, such as seeing flashing lights, hearing strange sounds, or smelling unusual odors.
- Physical symptoms: Epilepsy can cause physical symptoms such as muscle spasms, tingling or numbness, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.
- Emotional changes: Epilepsy can also cause emotional changes, such as anxiety, depression, or irritability.
It’s important to note that not everyone with epilepsy will experience all of these symptoms, and the symptoms can vary in severity from person to person. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.