17778 Temporal Lobe Seizures

Overview

A temporal lobe seizure is a type of seizure that starts in the temporal lobes, the parts of the brain that help with memory, emotions, and language. It can cause unusual feelings, odd movements, or a brief loss of awareness.

Temporal lobe seizures are one of the most common types of seizures in adults. They are also seen in children.

They can start at any age, but often begin in childhood or after a brain injury. Both men and women can have them.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A strange feeling in the stomach, sometimes like a rising sensation
• Déjà vu, a feeling that what is happening has happened before
• Brief staring or loss of awareness, as if daydreaming
• Lip smacking, chewing, or other repeated movements
• Sudden confusion or not being able to respond
• Unusual smells or tastes
• Tingling or a cold feeling

Symptoms in children

• Brief staring spells that look like daydreaming
• Not responding when spoken to for a short time
• Automatic movements, like sucking, chewing, or fumbling with clothes
• Sudden fear, laughter, or other strong emotions

Symptoms in older adults

• Brief moments of confusion that may look like forgetfulness
• Unusual feelings or memory lapses
• Staring or unresponsiveness
• Difficulty finding words after a seizure

Causes

Main causes

• A brain injury, such as from a fall or car accident
• Stroke or other blood vessel problems in the brain
• Brain infection, such as meningitis or encephalitis
• A brain tumour
• Scar tissue in the brain, for example from an injury or surgery
• Genetic or inherited factors
• Sometimes the cause is unknown

Risk factors

• Head injury
• Brain infection
• Stroke
• Family history of epilepsy
• Developmental disorders such as autism

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• After any first-time seizure, see a doctor as soon as possible
• If seizures change in length, frequency, or type
• If you have trouble waking up between seizures

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you think you may have had a seizure, even a mild one
• If a child has brief staring spells or unusual movements
• If you are an older adult with memory lapses or confusion that are not explained

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any events you remember. They may talk to someone who saw the seizure. You will likely be referred to a neurologist, a doctor specialising in the brain.

Tests that may be done

• Electroencephalogram (EEG) — a painless test that records brain wave activity
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — a scan that takes detailed pictures of the brain
• Computed tomography (CT) scan — another imaging test that looks for brain injuries or growths
• Blood tests to check for other medical conditions

What to expect at your appointment

These tests are usually painless and are done to find the cause of the seizures and plan the best treatment. It may take time, but identifying the type of seizure is an important step.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to stop or reduce seizures so you can live a normal life. Most people take medication to control seizures. Treatment is tailored to each person and often starts with a low dose that may be adjusted over time.

Self-care at home

• Take your prescribed medication every day, exactly as your doctor advises.
• Keep a seizure diary to track triggers and patterns.
• Get enough sleep and try to keep a regular sleep schedule.
• Work with your doctor to identify and avoid seizure triggers.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you have seizures.

Medical treatments

Several types of anti-seizure medication are available. Your doctor will choose one based on your seizure type, your age, and other health conditions. It is important to follow the plan, because missing doses can increase seizure risk. Never stop or change medication without talking to your doctor first.

When is surgery considered?

If medications do not control the seizures well, surgery may be an option. Surgery can remove a small part of the brain where the seizures start, if it is safe to do so. A specialist team will decide if this is right for you.

Living with this condition

You can live a full life with temporal lobe seizures. Work with your healthcare team, take your medication, and make small adjustments to stay safe. Many people find that seizures become rare and manageable.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule.
• Stress can make seizures worse, so learn relaxation techniques like breathing exercises or mindfulness.
• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, as they can interfere with treatment and trigger seizures.
• Tell trusted people about your seizures so they know what to do.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise are good for overall health. Some people find that staying active helps reduce stress and improve sleep. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new diet or exercise plan.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Seizures can be frightening, and it is common to feel anxious, embarrassed, or low. Your feelings matter. Talk to your doctor about any emotional struggles, and consider speaking with a counsellor or support group.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent temporal lobe seizures, but taking steps like protecting your head from injury, managing high blood pressure, and treating brain infections early can reduce some risks. Once you have the condition, medication and trigger management are the best ways to prevent seizures.

Complications

If left untreated

• Injury from falling or having a seizure while driving or swimming
• More frequent or longer seizures
• Memory and thinking problems over time
• A rare, dangerous condition called status epilepticus, where seizures do not stop

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment, most people with temporal lobe seizures can become seizure-free or have very few seizures. You can still go to school, work, and enjoy family life. The future is hopeful, and support is available.

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