Which of the following best describes an aura?

• A. Unusual sensation before onset
• B. Full-body convulsions
• C. Pale and sweaty
• D. Drooping face

Answer: (A)

An aura is a warning sensation some people experience before a seizure begins. It’s a subjective, unusual feeling or perception that signals that the seizure is starting, often described as strange tastes or smells, a sense of déjà vu, tingling, or dizziness. Because an aura serves as a prelude to the main event, describing it as an unusual sensation before onset best fits what an aura is. The other options describe things that occur during or after a seizure or relate to conditions other than an aura—for example, full-body convulsions are the seizure itself, pale and sweaty are autonomic symptoms that can occur during a seizure, and a drooping face could indicate a different medical issue such as weakness or stroke. If you notice an aura, keep the person safe and be ready to respond if the seizure progresses.