Which of the following symptoms is typical during the postictal period?

During the postictal period, which follows a seizure, individuals commonly experience confusion. This confusion is a result of the brain's recovery from the seizure activity. After a seizure, the brain undergoes a state of hyperexcitability and needs time to return to baseline functionality, often resulting in cognitive impairment and disorientation.

While other symptoms can also occur in the postictal phase, such as fatigue or difficulty speaking, confusion is one of the most prevalent and noticeable among those who have experienced a seizure. Understanding this symptom is crucial for caregivers and healthcare providers, as it helps in recognizing that the individual's impaired state is temporary and part of the recovery process.

Hyperactivity is not typically associated with the postictal period; instead, individuals may exhibit lethargy or decreased activity as they recover. Severe headaches can occur, but they are not universally present and can vary significantly among individuals. Altered consciousness before the seizure refers to a different state, specifically an aura, which is distinct from the symptoms experienced during the postictal period.