When you visit the Dr/Gp or specialist in Epilepsy they will take a detailed assessment of your seizures, your lifestyle and your family history. They will ask many questions and it is a good idea to take someone with you that has witnessed your seizures and take a log of all your seizures and any feelings you had before, during and after.
Here are some questions that may help you and your dr decide on a diagnosis.
Before the seizure
- Do you think anything set off (caused) the seizure – for example, flashing lights.
- Did you have any warning that you were going to have a seizure?
- Did your mood change – for example, were you excited, anxious or quiet?
- Did you make any sound, such as crying out or mumbling?
- Did you notice any unusual sensations, such as an odd smell or taste, or a rising feeling in your stomach?
- Where were you and what were you doing before the seizure?
During the seizure
- Did you appear to stare into space?
- Did you lose consciousness or become confused?
- Did you do anything unusual such as mumble, wander about or fiddle with your clothing?
- Did your colour change (become pale or flushed) and if so, where (face or lips)?
- Did your breathing change?
- Did any part of your body move, jerk or twitch?
- Did you fall down, or go stiff or floppy?
- Did you wet yourself?
- Did you bite your tongue or cheek?
After the seizure
- How did you feel after the seizure – did you feel tired, worn out or need to sleep?
- How long was it before you were able to carry on as normal?
- Did you notice anything else?
Don’t worry if you are unable to answer these questions as that may help diagnosis as well. Some things only the witness may know.