Epilepsy and seizures

Overview

Seizures can be convulsions, staring spells, or odd sensations.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Seizures
• Staring spells or losing time

Less common

• Staring spells
• Confusion after

Look up a symptom: Staring spells or losing time

When to get medical care

Causes

Many causes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Head injury
• Family history

Diagnosis

A neurologist evaluates.

Questions you may be asked

• What happened

The exam

Nerve exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• EEG:
• MRI:

Treatment

Stay safe.

Self-care

• Take medicine every day
• Sleep well
• Avoid swimming alone
• Follow driving laws

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

• Take medicine at the same times every day.
• Don't swim or bathe alone.
• Each state has rules on driving after a seizure. Ask your doctor.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Epilepsy Foundation: Seizure first aid training and a 24/7 helpline.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Pregnancy: Plan ahead; some medicines need changes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most people control seizures.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Epilepsy and seizures