Drs Assessment

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.

 

My experience with epilepsy