What to expect from a GP consultation for epilepsy

The GP may ask what you felt before the event, what your body did, how long recovery took and whether anyone witnessed it. A written account or video from a safe distance can help. They may review previous illnesses, sleep, alcohol or drug exposure, head injury, family history and medicines, while checking you for injuries and performing a neurological examination. One episode does not by itself establish epilepsy.

Write down the date and setting of each episode, possible triggers, warning symptoms, injuries and recovery time. Bring your medicine list and tell the GP about missed doses or unwanted effects. Do not stop an anti-seizure medicine suddenly without medical advice. The GP may arrange blood tests, brain imaging or an electroencephalogram, and may refer you to a neurologist.

Call emergency services if a seizure continues for five minutes or longer, repeats without recovery, causes serious injury, happens in water, affects breathing, or occurs during pregnancy. Urgent assessment is also needed after a first suspected seizure or when recovery is unusually slow.

Ask what information to record, whether you need specialist referral, how to take your medicine safely, and which activities should be paused until the cause is clearer.