Monitor for increased seizure frequency or severity. If you experience more seizures than usual, or if your seizures become longer or more intense, contact your doctor immediately.
Pay close attention to new or worsening seizure symptoms. These could include:
- Loss of awareness longer than usual More forceful or prolonged muscle contractions Increased post-ictal confusion or drowsiness Changes in aura preceding seizures New types of seizures
Note any changes in your overall health. Certain conditions can trigger seizures or worsen epilepsy. Report these to your doctor:
- Fever Head injury Sleep deprivation Changes in medication Stress or illness
Keep a seizure diary. Recording the date, time, duration, and type of seizure, along with any preceding symptoms, helps you and your doctor track patterns and identify potential triggers.
Understand when to seek emergency care. Call emergency services (911 or your local equivalent) immediately if:
A seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes. You experience multiple seizures without regaining consciousness between them. You injure yourself during a seizure. You experience difficulty breathing after a seizure.
Trust your instincts. If you feel something is wrong, contact your doctor or seek medical attention. Your health is paramount.
