Characteristic Signs Of Temporal Lobe Seizures

A temporal lobe seizure starts in the brain's temporal lobes, the areas responsible for emotion processing and short-term memory encoding. The symptoms of this type of seizure are often related to the temporal lobe's normal functions. Patients may experience strange feelings without any external reason, such as fear, deja vu, or euphoria. Some individuals are aware of what is happening during the seizures, though intense seizures can cause some to be unresponsive. The cause of these seizures is often unknown, though they sometimes arise because of a defect or scarring in the temporal lobe. Treatments include medication, and some patients may benefit from surgery if medication doesn't work.

Get to know the characteristic signs of temporal lobe seizures now.

Strange Sensory Experiences

Temporal lobe seizures that don't involve a loss of cognition have also been called focal seizures with retained awareness. They can often present with strange sensory information. Patients may experience a strange or sudden odor or taste they can't explain. They may also see things that aren't there. The strange sensory experiences may inform the odd emotional experiences and vice versa. With sensory focal seizures, the patient experiences vivid sensations with their senses. They might see colors and lights, hear sounds like buzzing, or feel like part of their body is tingling or numb. These types of seizures are often called sensory seizures. Unlike traditionally presenting temporal lobe seizures, they consist only or almost exclusively of sensory experiences, rather than unusual emotions.

Keep reading for more on the symptoms of temporal lobe seizures now.

Unprovoked Joy Or Fear

The temporal lobe helps individuals regulate and process their emotions. During a seizure, abnormal electrical activity causes the neurons to fire strange, nonsensical impulses, leading to odd emotions. Patients often describe feelings of unprovoked joy or fear in relation to temporal lobe seizures. Fear is common, and some patients have described the experience as akin to religious awe. It's also possible to feel sadness or anger. There may also be the physical sensations associated with certain emotions. Some people feel strange upsets in their stomach that seem to herald dread or excitement. Temporal lobe seizures often start with 'auras,' which are strange feelings or visions. Those who have auras can learn to recognize them as seizure warning signs.

Learn more about the warning signs of temporal lobe seizures now.