About this condition
Seizures can involve convulsions, a brief loss of contact, unusual sensations, repeated movements or a change in behaviour. Not every seizure causes a fall or prominent shaking. People may feel sleepy afterwards or remember little about the episode. A careful description of what happened is essential.
Clinical features
Witnesses can help establish the onset, eye direction, movements, skin colour, duration and recovery. Fainting, metabolic disturbances and non-epileptic events can resemble seizures. The appearance alone may not be enough to determine whether an episode is epileptic, and not every first seizure means someone has epilepsy.
Important differences and warning signs
Assessment combines the history with neurological examination. EEG, ECG, blood tests or MRI may be appropriate depending on the presentation. Prompt specialist advice is recommended following a first suspected seizure. A normal EEG does not always rule out epilepsy, and results are interpreted alongside the clinical history.
Assessment and individual care
Treatment depends on seizure type, other health conditions and medication interactions. Do not stop prescribed antiseizure medicine without medical advice. Clinicians also discuss driving, swimming, work at heights and situations in which another seizure could cause injury.
Related information: Seizures in adults; Memory and attention changes.
Signs and symptoms
- Convulsive episodes or brief periods of impaired awareness.
- Unusual sensations, repetitive movements or sudden behavioural changes.
- Confusion, tiredness or memory gaps following an episode.
Diagnosis and tests
A clinician evaluates the account of the patient and witnesses and decides whether EEG, imaging or other tests are indicated.
Care and treatment approaches
Antiseizure treatment and safety planning are personalised. Sudden withdrawal of prescribed medication can increase the risk of recurrent seizures.
When to seek urgent care
Call 103 if a convulsive seizure lasts 5 minutes or more, seizures recur without recovery, breathing is affected or there is serious injury. Protect the head, do not restrain movements and never put anything in the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
Does any seizure-like episode prove epilepsy?
No. Different conditions can cause similar events. Diagnosis requires clinical assessment and sometimes investigations.
May I stop medication after a long seizure-free period?
Not without medical advice. A clinician must consider the seizure type, treatment history and risk of recurrence.
How can a bystander help during a convulsion?
Keep the person away from hazards, protect their head, note the time and put nothing in their mouth. Call 103 for a prolonged or complicated seizure.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
