An aura is a disturbance experienced by some with seizures. The aura stage precedes a seizure in epilepsy.  Auras also give the individual a warning to prepare for the seizure or fight the seizure off.  Auras often manifests as the perception of a strange light, an unpleasant smell, taste, increased saliva production, thoughts, or mind experiences and can take place at any time of the day or in any imaginable situation.

Auras give the person a chance to redirect their thoughts and breathing to focus on rejecting the seizure during the aura experience. 

Auras can be different for everyone and people may not understand the experience of an aura if they have not felt an aura themselves. 

Speaking to your child, spouse, or friend living with epilepsy about auras is part of understanding the disorder.