What does seizure feel like with epilepsy?

Some people notice a warning called an aura, such as an unusual smell, rising feeling in the stomach, déjà vu, tingling, visual changes, or sudden fear. Others lose awareness without warning. A convulsive seizure may cause stiff muscles, repeated jerks, a fall, drooling, or temporary breathing changes. Afterwards, confusion, tiredness, headache, sore muscles, or difficulty speaking can last for a while. Seizures do not all look dramatic; a person may briefly stare, pause, or make repetitive movements.

Move hard or sharp objects away, cushion the head, remove glasses, and loosen tight clothing. Do not hold the person down or place anything in their mouth. Once movements stop, turn them onto their side and stay nearby until awareness returns. Record what happened and how long it lasted if you can do so safely. Follow the person’s seizure plan if one is available.

Call emergency services for a first seizure, repeated episodes without recovery, a prolonged seizure, serious injury, breathing problems, or a seizure in water. Get urgent advice if the pattern changes, recovery is unusually slow, or prescribed medicine was missed and seizures are recurring. Keep the person safe and do not offer food or drink until they are fully alert.

Ask which symptoms count as your seizure warning, how to use your personal seizure plan, and when rescue medicine is appropriate. Discuss triggers such as missed doses, poor sleep, illness, alcohol, and flashing lights if they seem relevant.