inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

epilepsy: focal aware seizures

overview

focal aware seizures (sometimes called simple partial seizures) occur in children and adults with some forms of epilepsy. they are about half as common as focal impaired awareness seizures.

the person stays awake and aware during the seizure. the seizure may be only a strange smell or taste, sound or visual disturbance, or feeling of confusion, anxiety, or fear—some people describe this as an aura. the person's arms, face, or hands may briefly stiffen, tingle, flex, or jerk, but this doesn't always occur. eyes may blink rapidly during the seizure. the person may cry out or may not be able to speak.

focal aware seizures affect only those muscles or body parts controlled by the specific area of the brain where the seizure begins. after the seizure, the person may feel weak or numb in that area of his or her body (often one side of the face, one hand, or one arm).

related information

credits

current as of: december 20, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement