Seizure Observation
When observing a seizure, the most helpful information is often what happens at the very beginning. This includes any warning signs or early symptoms. When possible, observe and record what happens:
- Before the seizure
- During the seizure
- After the seizure
Careful seizure observation can provide important information for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and seizure management.
What Should I Observe Before a Seizure?
If you notice seizure warning signs, try to record:
- What the person was doing when symptoms started
- Changes in mood, behavior, energy, or feelings
- Any aura or warning sign
- Possible seizure triggers, such as stress, illness, lack of sleep, or missed medications
Learn More:
Seizure TriggersWhat Should I Observe During a Seizure?
Record the date, time, and length of the seizure whenever possible.
Watch for changes in:
Awareness and Thinking
- Awareness of surroundings
- Alertness or confusion
- Memory
- Emotions or behavior
- Ability to speak or understand others
Sensations
- Unusual sights, sounds, smells, tastes, or physical sensations
Physical Symptoms
- Staring, blinking, twitching, or drooling
- Stiffening or loss of muscle tone
- Jerking, twitching, or shaking movements
- Falls
- Head or body turning to one side
- Repetitive movements such as lip-smacking, chewing, swallowing, hand rubbing, or picking at clothing
- Walking, wandering, or running
Other Changes
- Breathing patterns
- Sweating
- Changes in skin color
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Which Parts of the Body Were Affected?
It can be helpful to note:
- Where symptoms started
- Whether symptoms spread to other body parts
- Whether the right side, left side, or both sides of the body were affected
These details may help healthcare providers identify the seizure type and where the seizure may have started in the brain.
Should I Record a Seizure on Video?
If it is safe to do so, recording a video can be very helpful. Videos often provide details that are difficult to remember or describe later and may assist a neurologist in diagnosing epilepsy and identifying seizure types.
Always prioritize safety over recording.
Learn More:
What Happens During a Seizure?What Should I Observe After a Seizure?
The recovery period, called the postictal phase, can provide important information.
Observe whether the person:
- Responds to voice or touch
- Knows their name, location, and the date or time
- Remembers what happened
- Can communicate clearly
- Has weakness or numbness
- Experiences changes in mood or behavior
- Feels tired or needs to sleep
- Has symptoms such as headache, nausea, or pain
How Long Did the Seizure Last?
Try to record:
- How long any aura or warning sign lasted
- How long the seizure lasted
- How long recovery took before returning to normal activities
The duration of both the seizure and the recovery period can provide valuable information for your healthcare team.
Resources
Epilepsy Centers
Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.
Epilepsy Medication
Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.
Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline
Call our Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.
Tools & Resources
Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.
