What is a common characteristic of complex partial seizures?

A common characteristic of complex partial seizures is altered awareness. During a complex partial seizure, the individual experiences a change in their level of consciousness or awareness. This may manifest as confusion, a lack of responsiveness to external stimuli, or a sense of detachment from their environment. The person may appear to be awake but is not fully aware of their surroundings or what is happening, which is a hallmark of this type of seizure.

These seizures often involve automatisms, where the individual may perform repetitive motions without conscious control, but the key defining feature is the altered state of awareness rather than a complete loss of consciousness or simple motor movements. It's important to distinguish this characteristic because it helps in identifying the type of seizure and determining appropriate care and treatment for the individual experiencing them.