How effective is GP consultation for epilepsy?

The GP will ask what happened before, during and after an episode, including loss of awareness, unusual movements, tongue injury, incontinence, confusion and recovery. A witness account or video can be helpful if it was recorded safely. The GP reviews current anti-seizure medicines, missed doses, side effects, sleep, alcohol and other health conditions. They may arrange tests or refer you to a neurologist; a single event does not by itself establish epilepsy.

Keep a seizure diary with dates, warning symptoms, duration, possible triggers and recovery. Take medicines exactly as prescribed and do not stop them suddenly without medical advice. Tell the GP about pregnancy, driving, work at heights, swimming and any medicine or supplement use, because these details affect safety planning. Ask someone who witnessed an episode to describe it accurately.

Call emergency services if a seizure lasts longer than usual, repeats without recovery, causes serious injury, happens in water, affects breathing, or occurs during pregnancy. Seek urgent assessment after a first suspected seizure, a new pattern of events, or a seizure with prolonged confusion. Keep the person safe, cushion the head, move nearby hazards and do not put anything in their mouth.

Ask whether the event needs neurology referral, how to use your rescue plan, which medicine effects to report, and what restrictions apply to driving, swimming or working at height.