Reflex Epilepsy: What You Should Know

Triggers vary and may include flashing or patterned light, reading, certain sounds, touch, movement or particular thinking tasks. A trigger is not the same as a general cause of every seizure: the pattern is personal and may be difficult to identify without careful history. Seizures can involve staring, altered awareness, jerking or other changes in movement and behaviour. A trigger-linked event still needs proper assessment because other seizure types and non-epileptic episodes can look similar.

Record what happened immediately before an episode, how awareness and movement changed, how long recovery took, and whether anyone saw it. Avoid known triggers while waiting for advice, and follow prescribed anti-seizure treatment exactly. Tell people close to you how to keep you safe: they should move hazards away, cushion your head, avoid restraining you and never put anything in your mouth. A GP can arrange an appropriate assessment and referral.

Call emergency services if a seizure lasts longer than expected, repeats without recovery, causes serious injury, happens in water, or breathing does not return normally. Urgent help is also needed for a first seizure, pregnancy, diabetes or severe illness. Do not drive until a clinician has explained the relevant safety restrictions.

Ask which triggers are suspected, whether an EEG or other tests are appropriate, how to use prescribed rescue medicine if relevant, and what restrictions apply to driving, work and swimming. Bring a witness account or recording only if it was made safely.