Millions of people worldwide are affected by seizures, a neurological disorder. You may have experienced pre-seizure symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, or lightheadedness. And you understand how disturbing and confusing they can be. These signs are warning signs of a possible attack. They can also vary in strength and duration.
It is extremely important to take action when pre-seizure symptoms appear. This is because they may indicate an imminent attack. Knowing these warning signs will help you manage your condition effectively.
This article will discuss the actions to take when detecting feeling before a seizure. We will also give an idea of what happens before an attack. Below you can find recommendations for reducing the likelihood of seizures.
Promode Stage Overview
The initial phase of seizure activity calls the promode stage. It is also called the aura or pre-seizure phase. At this stage, various symptoms may occur that signal the onset of a seizure. They can vary depending on the specific condition of the person and the type of seizure. These pre-seizure symptoms can include:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness;
- Nausea or stomach discomfort;
- Sensory changes, such as numbness or tingling in the limbs or face;
- Visual changes, such as distorted images or flashes of light;
- Emotional changes, such as fear or anxiety;
- Confusion or disorientation.
It is extremely important to keep in mind that not everyone with seizures will have a promode stage. Some people may have very brief or subtle warning signs before the onset of a seizure.
For people with seizures, recognizing the first stage can be important. Because it may allow them to take steps to improve their well-being. This may include taking your medications as prescribed, finding a safe place, or notifying your caregiver or health care provider.
Warning signs of a seizure
The warning signs a seizure is coming can vary greatly from person to person. Also, an important factor is the particular type of seizure they are experiencing. Some common warning signs of a seizure include:
- Sensory changes. These may include tingling or numbness in the hands, feet, or face, changes in vision such as blurred vision or flashing lights, or a sudden sense of taste or smell.
- Emotional changes. Some people may experience mood swings, anxiety, fear, or a sense of impending doom.
- Physical changes. These may include muscle stiffness, dizziness or lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting, and changes in breathing or heart rate, deterioration in the normal functioning of the brain.
- Behavioral changes. Some people may exhibit unusual behavior or movements. For example, smack your lips, stare or repeat movements.
It is important to note that not all people will experience warning signs of a seizure. Some people may experience very subtle or short-term symptoms that are difficult to recognize. It is also possible for seizures to occur suddenly without any warning signs.
You need to work closely with your healthcare provider. Ongoing follow-up with a physician is necessary to develop a treatment plan. This is especially important for those who have been diagnosed with seizures. The doctor will be able to include strategies to respond to warning signs of seizures. With the right treatment, many people with seizures can lead full and active lives.
What to do if you feel a seizure coming on?
If you feel signs a seizure is coming, there are several steps you can take to help manage the situation:
Step #1 Alert Those Around You
If you are with other people, let them know that you are about to have a seizure, so they can help you and keep you safe.
Step #2 Try to Find a Safe Place
If possible, move to a safe location away from any hazards, sharp objects, or hard surfaces that may cause injury.
Step #3 Get in a Comfortable Position
If you are sitting or standing, try to get into a comfortable position on the ground. If you are driving or operating heavy machinery, stop immediately and seek help.
Step #4 Protect your Head
Use a pillow, jacket, or any soft object to cushion your head and prevent injury.
Step #5 Loosen any Tight Clothing
Remove any tight clothing or accessories that may restrict your breathing or circulation.
Step #6 Stay Calm
Try to remain calm and focus on your breathing to help manage your pre-seizure symptoms.
Step #7 Take your Medication
If you are taking medication to treat seizures, take them as directed by your doctor.
How to know if someone is having a seizure?
It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of a seizure to ensure that the person gets the necessary help. Here are some common feelings before a seizure of a seizure:
- Loss of consciousness. The person may lose consciousness or briefly lose awareness during the seizure.
- Convulsions. Uncontrollable movements such as jerking of the limbs or falling to the ground may occur.
- Staring spells. Some seizures may cause the person to stare off into space and not respond to their surroundings.
- Confusion. After the seizure, the person may feel confused or disoriented.
- Changes in behavior. During the seizure, the person may become aggressive, irritable, or anxious.
It’s crucial to remain calm and not panic during a seizure, as this can help the person feel more comfortable.
What NOT to do when someone has a seizure?
When someone has pre-seizure symptoms, there are certain things you should avoid. They are worth knowing to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are the main features:
- Don’t restrain the person
It is important to let the person’s body move freely during the seizure. Trying to hold them down or restrict their movements can cause injury to them or you.
- Don’t put anything in the person’s mouth
There is some misconception about the state of a person during a seizure. It’s said that a person can now swallow the tongue. But this is not possible. Don’t try to put anything in their mouth, as it can cause choking and lead to injury.
- Don’t try to move the person
If the person is in a dangerous location, gently guide them to a safe area. Do not try to move them any further, as this can cause more harm than good.
- Don’t give the person anything to eat or drink until they are fully alert
During warning signs of a seizure, a person may lose control of their muscles. This is especially true for those who control swallowing. Giving them food/drinks during or immediately after an attack may result in choking or aspiration.
- Don’t panic
Although seizures can be scary to witness, it’s important to stay calm and focused. Remember that most seizures only last a few minutes, and the person will recover with time.
If you have the first signs hurry up to contact a specialist. Don’t hesitate and care about your health on time.
FAQ
- How do you prevent a seizure when you feel it coming?
It is not always possible to completely prevent a seizure. But there are steps you can take when you feel it coming. This way, you can reduce the duration of the seizure or potentially prevent it entirely. Here are some strategies you can try:
- Take prescribed medication as directed;
- Get enough sleep;
- Manage stress;
- Avoid triggers;
- Seek a safe location;
- Wear a medical alert bracelet.
- What strange behavior happens before a seizure?
The bizarre behavior that occurs before a seizure can vary widely depending on the type of seizure and the individual’s specific condition. Some common symptoms include blurred vision or hearing, feeling restless, tingling, numbness, difficulty remembering or concentrating involuntary movements or twitches, or you may feel the urge to move in a certain way. It is important to note that not everyone with seizures has a prodromal period. Every person’s symptoms can manifest themselves in completely different ways.
- What are the 3 signs of a seizure?
The symptoms of a seizure can vary depending on the type of seizure. The individual characteristics of each person are also taken into account. But, three general signs may indicate the onset of a seizure:
- Aura or prodrome. This is the pre-seizure phase. It includes unusual sensations or behaviors that signal the onset of a seizure.
- Seizure activity. This is the main phase of the seizure and may include various symptoms. These include seizures, muscle spasms, loss of consciousness, or altered consciousness.
- Post-ictal phase. This is the post-attack period. During this time, the person may experience fatigue, confusion, or other symptoms. This is because the brain is recovering after an attack.
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4 Comments
Craig reid
15/01/2024
I found that helpful
Holly Leatherman
10/03/2024
Excellent, helped me so much, thank you!
Margot
16/03/2024
That explains alot. Thanks for sharing detailed information.
Pamela
27/03/2024
Thanks for the information, very helpful to try to take back control of my life!
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