Seizures are excessive electrical disruption in the brain that happen suddenly. They can cause changes in a person’s feelings,movements, or behavior. In some cases, they cause convulsions or loss of consciousness. They are relatively common and can be caused by various underlying health conditions, including head injury, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, brain tumors, and stroke. In most cases, one can effectively manage the condition with medication. However, for some people, it may be a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment. This article will cover six of the most common early warning signs:

1. Jerking movements
Another common early warning sign is jerking movements of the arms and legs, also known as a clonic movement. This type of movement is often accompanied by a loss of muscle control and coordination and can be quite distressing to witness. However, it is important to remember that not all jerking movements indicate a seizure; often, they can be a sign of restless leg syndrome or another type of movement disorder.

2. Stiffening of the body
Stiffening of the body, or tonic movements, is another common early warning sign. This symptom often occurs at the onset of an attack and can last for several seconds. The person may also experience sudden jerking movements as they stiffen their body. During this time, they may be unresponsive and unable to communicate with others. It is important to stay with the person and provide reassurance until the episode passes.

3. Loss of consciousness
A loss of consciousness is a serious symptom that can indicate a more severe condition, such as a complex partial or grand mal. People who lose consciousness during an episode may not remember what happened afterward, but ensuring the person is safe and well cared for is important.

4. breathing problems
Seizures can cause various breathing problems, from shallow or irregular breathing to gasping or holding your breath. In some cases, people may even stop breathing altogether. These symptoms can be extremely dangerous, and it is important to seek medical help immediately if you or someone you know experiences them. Various factors, including muscle contractions, blood pressure changes, and increased mucus production, can cause breathing problems. In some cases, they may also be caused by a blockage in the airway.

5. Loss of bowel or bladder control
Bowel or bladder control loss can also be an early warning sign. This symptom may occur at the start of an attack and can cause distress for the individual and those around them. If you experience any loss of bowel or bladder control during an episode, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible.

6. Staring
It could be an early warning sign if you or someone you know suddenly seems blank for a few seconds or minutes. This symptom, called staring spells, is one of the most common early warning signs of attacks. Staring spells can occur in children and adults and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as unresponsiveness, lip-smacking, or jerking movements. If you experience staring spells or any other unusual neurological symptoms, you must see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

A seizure episode can be extremely distressing and disruptive for the individual and their family. If you or someone you know experiences any of the early warning signs, seek professional medical help immediately. With proper treatment, it can be effectively managed and controlled in most cases.