Frequent convulsions are a sign of epilepsy, a long-lasting neurological illness. Although seizures are the most obvious symptom, the first signs of epilepsy might sometimes be more subtle, making early diagnosis essential for successful treatment. “Epilepsy doesn’t always cause visible seizures. Early signs can be confusing and may look like behavioural or psychological problems,” said Dr. Kandraju Sai Satish, a consultant neurologist and epileptologist at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, in an interview with HT lifestyle.

1. Daydreaming is sometimes confused with blank stares:

The symptoms of absence seizures are usually brief and consist of an abrupt staring episode that lasts for a few seconds. These incidents, which are common in youngsters but also occur in adults, might be mistaken for inattentiveness.

2. Abrupt disorientation or lapses in memory:

Forgetting what one was doing or losing track during a conversation may be signs of a seizure, particularly in temporal lobe epilepsy, which is characterized by momentary lapses in short-term memory.

3. Unusual sensory encounters:

Focal seizures may be preceded by symptoms like tingling, unusual odors, and tastes. This is a sort of seizure called an aura, which frequently serves as an early warning indication.

4. Unintentional recurring motions:

Automatisms, little seizures that many people mistake for behaviors or tics, might manifest as lip-smacking, excessive blinking, or hand wringing when unaware.

5. Sleep schedule disruption:

Unexpected nighttime awakenings, accompanied by limb jerking or inexplicable tiredness, might occur in those who have undiagnosed epilepsy, even if they have had enough sleep. The symptoms are frequently mistaken for common sleep disorders. Read also | Epilepsy and seizures: know the facts from the myths; doctor explains

6. unexplained shifts in mood:

In frontal or temporal lobe epilepsy, seizures may cause sudden irritability, sadness, or anxiety, especially when they are out of proportion to the events of daily life.

7. Loss of consciousness during activities:

During partial seizures, some individuals persist in speaking or doing activities while being oblivious to their environment. These are commonly mistaken for zoning out.

8. Auditory or visual distortions:

Seizure activity, not mental illness, could be the cause of flashing lights, ringing, or hearing voices without an explanation.

9. Unexpected and unexplained falls:

Drop attacks, also known as atonic seizures, induce rapid muscle tone loss, resulting in unexpected collapses. The episodes are short, and the person recovers quickly.

"See a neurologist if these symptoms occur, especially if they occur frequently. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve long-term outcomes in epilepsy," said Dr. Kandraju Sai Satish.

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