Epilepsy: Symptoms
Having seizures is the defining characteristic of epilepsy. Seizures vary from a momentary disruption of the senses, to short periods of unconsciousness or staring spells, to convulsions. Some people have just one type of seizure. Others have more than one type.

Seizure symptoms include:

• A convulsion with or without a fever
• Short periods of blackout or confused memory
• Occasional "fainting spells" in which bladder or bowel control is lost, followed by extreme fatigue
• Episodes of blank staring
• Brief periods of no response to questions or instructions
• Sudden stiffening or falls for no apparent reason
• Episodes of blinking or chewing at inappropriate times
• Dazed behavior; being unable to talk or communicate for a short time
• Repeated movements that look out of place or unnatural
• Sudden fear, anger or panic for no reason
• Odd changes in the way things look, sound, smell or feel
• Muscle jerks of arms, legs or body