Clinical Signs of Epilepsy

Epilepsy results when abnormal electrical activity in the brain results in recurrent seizures. Signs and symptoms of a seizure vary because of different parts of the brain being affected. Physicians determine the presence of epilepsy and what type based on several clinical signs and symptoms.

Simple Partial Seizures

• Partial seizures involve only one part of the brain. You remain conscious during a partial seizure. Signs of a partial seizure include abnormal body movements such as involuntary jerking, changes in personality and sense perception, auras (visual disturbances) and problems affecting the nervous system, resulting in problems like loss of bladder control and irregular heartbeat, according to WebMD and the Mayo Clinic. You might not necessarily experience all of these symptoms at the same time.

Complex Partial Seizures

• Like simple partial seizures, this type of seizure affects only one part of the brain, but you lose a sense of awareness while it is happening. You might stare off into space and perform involuntary, repetitive movements that serve no purpose. Examples include chewing, rubbing your hand or walking in circles.

Generalized Seizures

• Generalized seizures affect the whole brain and come in many forms. Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, result in brief episodes of staring and losing consciousness. According to WebMD, you might experience this several times a day and not even be aware it is happening. Myoclonic seizures manifest as acute jerking and twitching of the arms and legs, according to the Mayo Clinic. It might feel like an electric shock and, in more severe cases, results in throwing objects, according to WebMD. Atonic seizures affect normal muscle tone and usually result in sudden collapse. Grand mal seizures--the most serious--result in loss of consciousness, loss of bladder control and muscle stiffness followed by severe jerking.