What is seizure conditions?

Seizure Conditions
Jump to

Evaluation and treatment after a first seizure: Overview

It can be scary if you or someone you care about has a seizure for the first time.

When you see the doctor, they will try to figure out why you had the seizure. And they will figure out if you need treatment.

Seizures can be caused by lots of things. Examples are infections, epilepsy, medicines, and problems in the brain like a stroke or tumor. So you will have some tests. Most people will have blood tests, an electroencephalogram (EEG), and an MRI. Some people will need other tests, like a CT scan or a lumbar puncture.

Then the doctor will figure out if you need medicine to prevent more seizures. This depends on the chances that you might have another seizure. For example, if your seizure was caused by a medicine, treatment usually isn't needed. After the medicine leaves your body, there's no more risk that you'll have a seizure. But you might need treatment if, for example, your EEG results aren't normal or you have an infection.

How can you care for yourself if you have seizures?

  • Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Do not do any activity that could be dangerous to you or others until your doctor says it is safe to do so. For example, do not drive a car, operate machinery, swim, or climb ladders.
  • Be sure that anyone treating you for any health problem knows that you have had a seizure and what medicines you are taking for it.
  • Identify and avoid things that may make you more likely to have a seizure. These may include lack of sleep, alcohol or drug use, stress, or not eating.
  • If possible, take a shower instead of a bath. Having a seizure while in a bath can increase the risk of drowning.

Seizure in children without fever or known seizure disorder: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • Your child has another seizure during the same illness.
  • Your child has new symptoms. These may include weakness or numbness in any part of the body.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child is not acting normally after the seizure.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.

©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated

The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.