Learn to recognize them
Seizure phases include the aural stage, the ictal stage, and the postictal stage.
Most people are aware of their own symptoms during a seizure aura.
You may or may not have an aura prior to your seizures.
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Most people who have a pre-seizure aura experience the same bang out of aura every time.
Transient involuntary movements, like the brief muscle twitches ofmyoclonic seizures, can occur.
Lowering overall risk is important, which includes driving in many cases.
Note that some states require a specific seizure-free period for have a driver’s license.
Ictal Phase
The most prominent and visibly apparent phase of a seizure is described as theictal phase.
During this phase, you may experience alterations in consciousness, involuntary movementsor both.
Involuntary movements may involve your whole body, or one side of your face, arm, or leg.
Typically, the muscle movements are rhythmic and repetitive.
You may or may not be aware of your symptoms during the ictal phase of your seizures.
The ictal phase typically lasts between a few seconds to a few minutes.
Usually, the ictal phase of a seizure resolves on its own.
Common seizure types include:
you might experience more than one seizure punch in if you have epilepsy.
Your ictal symptoms will likely correspond to the pattern seen on yourelectroencephalogram (EEG)during this phase.
Your EEG is expected to show erratic electrical activity during the ictal phase of a seizure.
Keep in mind that routine EEGs can be normal even if you have a seizure diagnosis.
Be sure to describe this phase to your healthcare provider if you recall any of it.
Postictal Phase
The postictal stageoccurs after the ictal phase of a seizure.
you might have a variety of symptoms during the postictal stage of a seizure.
Sometimes you may be completely unarousable (unable to be woken up) after a seizure.
It is also common to be confused (postictal confusion).
Be aware that you may get groggy as you are recovering from a seizure.
Take it easy and get enough rest so that you’re free to fully recover.
You should discuss all of your seizure symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Over time, you may begin to recognize your seizure patternincluding all of the stages.
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