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What are the stages of seizures?

Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju
Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

Having an understanding of the phases of seizures is crucial when it comes to managing this condition effectively. This knowledge is especially helpful for providing suitable treatment. It’s worth noting that not all individuals experience every stage of a seizure. But recognizing the stages can help people with seizures to identify warning signs.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that seizures can vary in type, severity, and symptoms. This is why it’s important to collaborate closely with your healthcare provider. So that a personalized seizure treatment plan can develop, taking into account each individual’s unique needs and symptoms.

This article will focus on three stages of seizures: the prodromal stage, the stage during the attack, and the stage after the attack. Separately, we will consider how seizures work. The symptoms and behaviors that occur at each stage will discuss. Also, the characteristics of each stage take into account.

how do seizures work

How do Seizures Work?

Stages of seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. But, during a seizure, this activity becomes uncontrolled and excessive. This disrupts the normal functioning of the brain and leads to various symptoms. This may depend on which part of the brain affects it. Normally, the brain’s neurons communicate with each other through coordinated electrical impulses. During a seizure, this activity becomes uncontrollable and excessive. Disrupting the normal functioning of the brain and leading to various symptoms.

Seizures can cause by various factors. They include epilepsy, brain injury, infections, genetic disorders, and other diseases. Treatment may include medication to prevent seizures. This includes lifestyle changes and other interventions to treat underlying conditions.

Most people with experience can predict the onset of an attack by specific symptoms. But many patients attack at the most unexpected moment. It proceeds according to the following scenario:

  1. In the first seconds of an attack, a person has a spasm of the vocal cords. Unintelligible screams are also possible;
  2. Loss of ability to control movement. There are tonic convulsions with full tension of the body and a characteristic throwing of the head;
  3. Intermittent breathing heard, vessels in the neck swell, and pallor of the skin observed;
  4. Due to convulsions, there is a strong compression of the jaws. People often bite their tongue;
  5. There are convulsive movements of the neck, limbs, and the whole body;
  6. Foam comes out of the mouth, the tongue sinks in, and a noisy hoarse breath appears. This phase is the longest and can take up to 3 minutes;
  7. Disappearance of convulsive phenomena and complete relaxation of body muscles.

After the seizure, the person may confuse, disoriented, or sleepy. They may have difficulty speaking or moving and may feel weak or tired. Some people may also experience headaches, muscle aches, or other physical symptoms after all the stages of seizures.

What happens after a seizure call the postictal phase. This may depend on the severity of the attack. We’ll talk about this and other stages next.

Prodrome Seizure: 1 Stage

The prodrome stage is the initial phase of a seizure that precedes the actual onset of the seizure. At this stage, a person may experience minor changes in the condition. They serve as warning signs that an attack is imminent.

Symptoms

Not all people with epilepsy experience the prodromal stage. Also, symptoms can vary from person to person. Some common signs of the prodromal phase of seizures include emotional changes. These include anxiety, irritability, or depression. Physical symptoms such as headache, fatigue, or muscle tension may also occur. Besides, there may be changes in appetite or sleep patterns. It is not uncommon to have difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.

Features

Recognizing signs of the prodromal stage of seizures can be helpful for people. This allows them to take preventive measures and avoid injury. But, it is important to remember that not all seizures have a prodromal stage. Some of them may appear suddenly and without warning.

People need to work closely with their healthcare providers. Communication with a specialist is important to develop individualized treatment.  This can tailor to their symptoms and needs. This can help manage seizures and improve the quality of life.

During the Seizure: 2 Stage

During a seizure, abnormal electrical activity in the brain triggers the ictal stage. This stage manifests many symptoms. Symptoms can vary in number and intensity depending on the type and severity of the seizure.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms of the ictal stage include:

  • Uncontrolled muscle contractions or convulsions;
  • Stiffening or rigidity of the body;
  • Loss of consciousness;
  • Confusion or disorientation;
  • Changes in breathing or heart rate;
  • Sensory symptoms, such as tingling, numbness, or visual disturbances;
  • Hallucinations or other changes in perception.

Symptoms of the ictal phase of seizures can vary greatly depending on the type of seizure. Some people may experience more than one seizure in a row. It is important for people with epilepsy to know the symptoms of seizures and to seek medical help. It is especially important to know this when seizures last for a long time. These may last longer than a few minutes or by other distressing symptoms.

Features

people with epilepsy need to recognize these symptoms. If they find it, seek medical attention. At this stage, it is extremely important to take measures to prevent injury to the person. This includes moving them to a safe place and unbuttoning clothing or jewelry. There may also be a refusal to hold them or put anything in the mouth. The ictal stage can be difficult. But treating seizures properly can help people cope with seizures.

Post Seizure: 3 Stage

The third stage of a seizure is the post-seizure, which occurs after the seizure has ended. The brain may need time to recover and return to its normal function during this stage.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the postictal stage may vary depending on the type and severity of the seizure. But some common symptoms include:

  • Confusion or disorientation;
  • Fatigue or exhaustion;
  • Headache or muscle aches;
  • Nausea or vomiting;
  • Changes in mood or emotions, such as irritability or depression;
  • Memory loss or difficulty remembering what happened during the seizure.

Features

The duration of the post-seizure may vary from a few minutes to several hours. Thus, it is important to give the epilepsy patient time to rest and recover. At this stage, it is worth observing the patient. In this way, you can prevent the subject from showing signs of injury or complications. The rare complications are difficulty breathing or seizures that do not stop.

Once the postictal phase of seizures is over, it is important to see your health care provider. This is to check the seizure treatment plan and adjust it if necessary. This may include medication changes, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. All actions should aim at preventing future seizures.

A good understanding of seizures is critical to recognizing warning signs. It is important to work closely with your doctor. This way, you can maintain a stable state and effectively cope with seizures. In the event of a relapse, a doctor can help prevent further seizures.

Seizures can be complex. But proper care and treatment can enable people with epilepsy to lead full and active lives. Focus on seizure management by working with health care providers. This way, you can achieve the best possible results. This may include sticking to your medication regimen, making lifestyle changes, and avoiding triggers that can lead to seizures. With the right resources, people can live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

FAQ 

  • What is the most serious seizure?

One of the most serious types of seizures is status epilepticus. These are prolonged seizures that last more than five minutes without stopping. They may also be with incomplete recovery of consciousness.

  • What triggers seizures?

Seizures can trigger by a variety of factors, and triggers can vary from person to person. Some common triggers of seizures include: sleep deprivation, anxiety, alcohol/drug use, missing medication doses, hormonal changes, infection, and others. It may not be possible to identify a specific seizure trigger. Seizures can also occur without warning. People with epilepsy need to prepare for seizures and have a plan to stop them.

  • What are the 3 phases of a seizure?

The three phases of a seizure: 

  • The prodromal phase. This is the first phase of a seizure, which may occur hours or even days before the seizure itself; 
  • The ictal phase. This is the second phase of a seizure, which is the actual seizure itself;
  • The postictal phase. This is the third and final phase of a seizure, which occurs after the seizure has ended.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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