Epilepsy: What to Expect

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects how the brain works. It causes recurring seizures, which happen due to sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. While epilepsy can sound frightening, many people with epilepsy live full, active lives with the right diagnosis, treatment and support.

Understanding the early signs, how epilepsy is diagnosed, and what treatment involves can help reduce fear and encourage early medical care.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures. A seizure can look different from person to person. Some seizures involve shaking and loss of consciousness, while others may be brief episodes of staring, confusion, or unusual movements.

There are many types of seizures, including:

• Generalised seizures (affecting the whole brain)

• Focal seizures (starting in one area of the brain)

• Absence seizures (brief staring episodes)

• Tonic-clonic seizures (shaking and loss of awareness)

First Signs of Epilepsy

The first signs can vary depending on the type of seizure. Some early symptoms may include:

• Sudden staring spells

• Jerking movements of the arms or legs

• Loss of awareness or responsiveness

• Confusion after an episode

• Sudden falls

• Strange sensations such as tingling, unusual smells, or visual disturbances

• Temporary loss of memory

If you or someone around you experiences a first seizure, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

What To Do If Someone Has a Seizure

If someone is having a seizure:

• Stay calm

• Protect them from injury by moving nearby objects

• Place them on their side if possible

• Do not put anything in their mouth

• Time the seizure

Call 000 if:

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes

• Another seizure follows immediately

• The person is injured or not breathing properly

• It is their first seizure

How Is Epilepsy Diagnosed?

A GP will start by taking a detailed medical history and discussing what happened during the seizure. You may be referred to a neurologist for further testing.

Common diagnostic tests include:

• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – records electrical activity in the brain

• MRI or CT scan – checks for structural changes in the brain

• Blood tests – to rule out other causes

Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective epilepsy treatment.

Treatment Options for Epilepsy

Treatment focuses on controlling seizures and improving quality of life.

1. Anti-seizure medication

Most people with epilepsy manage their condition with daily medication. Finding the right medication and dose may take time.

2. Lifestyle management

• Regular sleep

• Managing stress

• Avoiding alcohol or recreational drugs

• Taking medication consistently

3. Specialist treatments

In some cases, options may include:

• Surgery

• Vagus nerve stimulation

• Specialised dietary therapy

With appropriate treatment, around 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Epilepsy?

Epilepsy can affect anyone, at any age. However, risk factors include:

• Head injury or trauma

• Stroke

• Brain infection

• Family history of epilepsy

• Developmental or neurological conditions

• Brain tumours

In many cases, the exact cause is unknown.

Common Myths About Epilepsy

Myth: Epilepsy is rare. Truth: Epilepsy affects thousands of Australians and is one of the most common neurological conditions.

Myth: All seizures involve shaking. Truth: Some seizures are very subtle, such as brief staring or confusion.

Myth: You should hold someone down during a seizure. Truth: Never restrain someone during a seizure. Protect them from injury instead.

Myth: People with epilepsy cannot live normal lives. Truth: With proper treatment, many people work, drive (with medical clearance), study and live independently.

Living Well With Epilepsy

Managing epilepsy involves more than medication. Support from family, workplace understanding, and regular medical check-ups are essential.

At Alma Street Medical, our GPs can provide epilepsy assessment, medication management, care plans, and referrals to neurologists when needed. If you or a loved one has experienced a seizure or has concerns about epilepsy, early consultation is important.

When to See Your GP

Book an appointment if you experience:

• A first seizure

• Recurrent unexplained episodes of confusion

• Sudden blackouts

• Ongoing seizure activity despite medication

• Concerns about medication side effects

Early medical advice can significantly improve outcomes.