Conditions

Epilepsy

A condition that causes repeated seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

When to get emergency help

Call 112 if a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, if seizures happen one after another, if the person is injured or not breathing normally, or if it is their first seizure.

Call 112

About this condition

Epilepsy is a condition in which a person tends to have repeated seizures. Seizures happen when there is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Seizures can look very different from person to person, from convulsions to brief staring spells. With the right assessment and treatment, many people with epilepsy have good seizure control.

Common symptoms

  • Convulsions or jerking of the body
  • Brief staring spells or not responding
  • Sudden falls or loss of awareness
  • Repeated unusual sensations, smells or feelings
  • Confusion or sleepiness after an episode

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

How it is assessed

  1. A detailed description of the episodes from the patient and from people who have seen them.
  2. A neurological examination.
  3. Tests such as an EEG and brain imaging, where advised.

Who may be affected

  • Anyone who has had a seizure or an unexplained blackout
  • People with epilepsy whose seizures are not well controlled

Preparing for your appointment

It helps to bring:

  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse

How the clinic can help

  • Assessment at the epilepsy clinic.
  • Treatment planning, usually with medicines.
  • Safety advice and regular review.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Is epilepsy treatable?

Many people with epilepsy achieve good seizure control with medicines. The doctor will advise on the best approach for each person.

What should I do if someone has a seizure?

Keep them safe from injury, cushion their head, turn them onto their side once the jerking stops and do not put anything in their mouth. Call 112 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.