Focal seizures are diagnosed from a description of stereotyped episodes that begin in one part of the brain, supported by EEG and imaging. The key clue is that the same sequence of symptoms repeats each time in the same order.
Focal seizures are diagnosed from a description of stereotyped episodes that begin in one part of the brain, supported by EEG and imaging. The key clue is that the same sequence of symptoms repeats each time in the same order.
Focal seizures arise from a specific area of the brain, so the symptoms reflect what that area does and repeat in the same order every time. That consistency is the most useful diagnostic feature. Depending on the region involved, episodes might begin with a rising sensation in the stomach, an unexplained smell or taste, a sudden feeling of intense familiarity, jerking that starts in one hand and spreads, or an inability to speak while remaining fully aware.
Focal seizures are classified by whether awareness is preserved. In focal aware seizures, previously called simple partial, the person remains conscious and can usually describe the episode afterwards. In focal impaired awareness seizures, previously called complex partial, awareness is affected and the person often cannot recall it, which is precisely why a witness account is essential. Automatisms such as lip smacking, chewing or fumbling with clothing are common in the second group.
EEG can show where abnormal activity originates and help classify the seizure type, which influences medication choice. A routine study is frequently normal between episodes, so an ambulatory EEG recording over several days is often the more informative option; both are available at the CNS offices. Imaging looks for a structural cause, which is more commonly found in focal than in generalised epilepsy, and is arranged externally since these offices have no imaging suite.
Clinical Neurology Specialists has been physician-owned since 1998, when Leo Germin, M.D., FAANEM founded it. Five board-certified neurologists and four advanced practice providers see patients at the Las Vegas and Henderson offices, each with its own AANEM-accredited electrodiagnostic laboratory.
Clinical Neurology Specialists is an adult outpatient neurology practice for patients 18 and older. The practice performs no surgery and operates no imaging suite, infusion suite or interventional pain programme, and provides no emergency or inpatient care.
Physician-reviewed. Reviewed by the physicians of Clinical Neurology Specialists — board-certified neurologists, AANEM-accredited electrodiagnostic laboratories, physician-owned since 1998. Reviewed 1 August 2026. This article is general education for adults 18 and older and is not a substitute for a consultation.
Sources and further reading: MedlinePlus: epilepsy; MedlinePlus: electroencephalogram (EEG); National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Adults 18 and older, at the Las Vegas and Henderson offices. Call 702-804-1212 or request an appointment online.