A seizure aura is a distinct sensation or experience some individuals encounter before a seizure. It serves as an early indication that a seizure might occur, varying in presentation from person to person.
What is a Seizure Aura?
A seizure aura is a type of focal seizure, also called a focal onset aware seizure. This means seizure activity begins in a specific, localized brain area while the person remains conscious and aware. The unique sensations of an aura arise from this localized brain activity. An aura can last from a few seconds to an hour before a more widespread seizure begins, signaling a larger event.
Common Aura Sensations
Auras manifest in various ways, reflecting diverse brain region functions. Visual disturbances include flashing lights, zigzag lines, blurred vision, blind spots, or seeing complex patterns or formed images not actually present. Auditory sensations involve buzzing, ringing, drumming, or more complex sounds like voices or music.
Olfactory auras involve unusual smells, often unpleasant like burning or chemical odors, though neutral or pleasant smells can occur. Gustatory auras lead to strange tastes: acidic, bitter, salty, sweet, or metallic. Psychic experiences are common, including déjà vu (a sense of having experienced something before) or jamais vu (a familiar situation feeling suddenly unfamiliar). Intense emotions like fear, anxiety, panic, joy, or euphoria can also occur.
Somatosensory auras affect physical sensations, leading to tingling, numbness, or electrical shocks. These sensations can occur in one or more body parts, commonly affecting upper and lower extremities and the face. Some individuals may also feel detachment from their body or a sensation that an arm or leg feels larger or smaller. Other physical sensations include a rising feeling in the stomach, nausea, or dizziness.
Significance of Recognizing Auras
Recognizing an aura is important for individuals who experience them, as it provides a crucial warning before a more severe seizure. This warning time allows individuals to take safety precautions, such as sitting or lying down to prevent injury from a fall. Moving to a safe, clear area, away from hard or sharp objects, can also reduce injury risk during the seizure.
Describing an aura to healthcare providers is valuable for diagnosis and treatment planning. The aura type offers clues about the brain area where the seizure originates. This information assists medical professionals in pinpointing the seizure’s source and tailoring interventions. Documenting aura nature and timing contributes to a more accurate understanding of an individual’s seizure patterns.
When an Aura Occurs
If an aura occurs, take immediate safety measures. Move to a safe location, such as sitting or lying down on the floor or a soft surface, to minimize injury risk if the seizure progresses. Informing someone nearby about the aura can be helpful, allowing them to assist or provide support. Removing any potentially harmful objects from the immediate vicinity is a practical step.
Document the experience, noting the time it occurred, the specific sensations felt, and how long the aura lasted. This information is valuable for discussions with a healthcare provider. Not all individuals who experience seizures have auras. The absence of an aura does not indicate a less severe seizure. If new or changing aura sensations occur, consult a medical professional for evaluation and guidance.