Epilepsy And Auras

Individuals that have experienced epilepsy for an extended length of time may come to a point where they know that a seizure is about to occur. This distinct feeling of an impending seizure is often referred to as auras. Not all patients experience auras, but those that do are actually quite thankful as this internal warning system allows them to properly prepare for the events that are about to transpire.

These warning signs are not at all comfortable and many even describe them as being completely unbearable, but there are many benefits associated with the ability to prepare for an epileptic seizure. In this guide, you will receive useful information pertaining to auras. 

Common Warning Signs 

When an individual experiences an aura, there are usually many common warning signs experienced that indicate that a seizure will occur in a short amount of time. Many have auras that provide them with at least a couple of hour's worth of warning.

Then, there are some that only have a few minutes warning. Auras are unique to the individual that is experiencing them. Many experience the following common warning signs when they experience an aura before the onset of a seizure: 

• The individual may notice that the sensations that they feel in their body are different than those that they normally experience.  

• Many will discover that it is challenging to interact with various types of people, places, and events once they start to experience the aura that indicates an epileptic seizure is about to occur.  

• It is quite common for familiar people, places, situations, and other factors in the environment to feel as if they are unfamiliar.  

• Mood disturbances are quite common when it comes to auras. The personality may change drastically or the individual may feel quite irritable, agitated, or even become angry. In some cases, anger may be accompanied by emotional outbursts that may be considered either violent or nonviolent.  

• Sleep complications are often common among those that experience auras. Many may not be able to sleep appropriately, while others are unable to sleep at all.  

• Headaches are a common warning sign associated with auras. The headaches may be mild, severe, dull, or sharp. In addition to experiencing the pain associated with the headaches, many individuals find that they also experience nausea. In some instances, the nausea may become so severe that it results in vomiting.  

It has been established that well over 50% of all individuals that have been diagnosed with epilepsy may experience an aura. While the warning signs are often not pleasurable whatsoever, experiencing the warning signs that a seizure is about to occur is beneficial in numerous ways. It will allow the patient to express their complication to others and will also help them situate themselves so that accidents that may result in injuries do not occur.