What type of seizure can include altered consciousness during or after the event?

The type of seizure that can include altered consciousness during or after the event is the complex partial seizure. In complex partial seizures, the individual experiences a change in consciousness or awareness that can manifest as confusion, a lack of responsiveness, or unusual behaviors as they may appear dazed or unable to engage with their environment appropriately. These seizures typically originate in a specific area of the brain, often in the temporal lobe, and can involve automatisms—repetitive, involuntary movements such as lip-smacking or hand movements.

This altered state of consciousness is what distinguishes complex partial seizures from other types. For instance, simple partial seizures do not affect awareness and often allow the person to remain fully conscious, while generalized seizures affect the entire brain from the onset, and although they can sometimes involve loss of consciousness, they typically involve more widespread seizure activity. Myoclonic seizures are characterized by sudden muscle jerks and also do not normally result in a change in consciousness. Therefore, complex partial seizures are specifically recognized for their association with altered consciousness during and sometimes after the seizure event.