Epilepsy is a tendency to have unprovoked seizures. It is one of the most treatable neurological conditions — around 70% of patients become seizure-free on the right medication.
What to do during a seizure
- Stay calm and note the start time
- Ease the person to the floor and turn them on their side
- Place something soft under the head; loosen tight clothing around the neck
- Do not put anything in the mouth — tongue-swallowing is a myth
- Do not restrain movements
- Call for medical help if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, repeats, or the person does not wake up
Diagnostic workup
A detailed history from a witness, an EEG (electroencephalogram) and an MRI brain form the core evaluation. In selected cases, video-EEG monitoring is used to characterise unusual events.
Living well with epilepsy
Regular sleep, medication adherence and avoiding alcohol are the three biggest wins. Most patients can drive, work and have healthy pregnancies with proper management — planning around medication is the key.
Not a substitute for medical advice
This article is for education only. For a diagnosis or treatment plan tailored to your case, please book a consultation with Dr. Ankush Sharma.