Patient Resources
What happens after a first seizure?
Short answer
After a first seizure, evaluation typically includes a detailed history from you and any witnesses, a neurological examination, laboratory studies, an EEG, and brain imaging. The goal is to determine whether it was a seizure, what may have provoked it, and what the risk of recurrence is.
Understanding this
A witness description is often the single most valuable piece of information, because much of what happens during a seizure is not remembered.
Some seizures are provoked by factors such as sleep deprivation, alcohol withdrawal, metabolic abnormalities, or medications. Others reflect an underlying tendency toward recurrent seizures, which is epilepsy.
Driving restrictions and safety recommendations after a seizure vary by state and by individual circumstances and are discussed during the visit.
Symptoms and signs
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Stiffening or rhythmic jerking of the limbs
- Staring spells with unresponsiveness
- Tongue biting or loss of bladder control
- Confusion or fatigue afterward
- Brief unusual sensations, smells, or déjà vu
How it is evaluated
- History from the patient and any witnesses
- Neurological examination
- Laboratory studies
- EEG
- MRI or CT of the brain
- Discussion of treatment, safety, and follow-up
When to seek care
- Call 911 for a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, repeated seizures, a seizure with injury, difficulty breathing, or failure to return to normal awareness afterward.
- A first seizure should always be medically evaluated.
Emergency symptoms
Request a Neurology Appointment
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "Memory," or call 815-337-7100 to schedule. Our office will follow up to confirm your evaluation.
In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available.
What happens after you text
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and a keyword. Our office calls you back to schedule — you do not need to fill out a form.
When you'll hear back
Texts and calls received during office hours are typically returned the same business day. You can also call 815-337-7100 directly.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. [Insurance details — placeholder]. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
Please do not send urgent or emergency medical information by text. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. Please avoid sending sensitive medical information by ordinary SMS unless instructed otherwise.