Seizures & Epilepsy
Seizure and Epilepsy Neurologist
Not every episode of shaking, staring or loss of awareness is a seizure, and not every seizure means epilepsy. Evaluation establishes what the episode most likely was, whether it is likely to recur, and what testing, treatment and safety planning are appropriate.
Episodes that should be evaluated
- A first convulsive seizure
- Staring spells or episodes of unresponsiveness
- Brief jerking, déjà vu or sensory episodes
- Loss of consciousness of uncertain cause
- Confusion or tongue biting after an episode
- Recurrent unexplained falls
Evaluation
- Detailed description of the event, including from witnesses
- Neurological examination
- EEG, with prolonged or sleep-deprived studies when needed
- MRI of the brain
- Laboratory studies and medication review
- Cardiac evaluation when fainting is a possibility
Treatment and follow-up
Whether to start medication after a single seizure depends on recurrence risk, EEG and imaging results, and individual circumstances including driving and occupation. When medication is started, the choice accounts for seizure type, other medical conditions, pregnancy planning and side effect profile.
Follow-up addresses seizure control, medication tolerability, bone and vitamin considerations, and referral for further evaluation when seizures continue despite appropriate medication.
Sleep, alcohol and seizure triggers
Sleep deprivation is one of the most consistent seizure provocateurs, and alcohol — particularly binge use and withdrawal — is another. Consistent sleep, treatment of sleep apnea, medication adherence and moderation of alcohol are practical parts of seizure control.
Safety guidance covers driving regulations, swimming, heights, bathing and work considerations, and is reviewed at each visit.
Emergency seizure situations
Frequently asked questions
- What happens after a first seizure?
- Evaluation usually includes a detailed history, examination, EEG, brain imaging and laboratory studies, then a discussion of recurrence risk, whether medication is appropriate, and driving and safety restrictions.
- Does a normal EEG mean I did not have a seizure?
- No. A routine EEG can be normal in people with epilepsy. It adds information about risk but does not exclude the diagnosis.
Care across Northwestern Illinois & Southern Wisconsin
Patients travel from McHenry County, the northwest Chicago suburbs, the Fox Valley and southern Wisconsin for this care. In-person visits take place in Crystal Lake and Woodstock, Illinois and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Telehealth is available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin when clinically appropriate.
Schedule a Neurology Appointment
Choose the scheduling line for the state where you will be located for your appointment.
In-Person Neurology Visits
Available at three office locations:
Crystal Lake, Illinois
Woodstock, Illinois
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Telehealth Neurology Visits
Telehealth neurology appointments are available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin. You do not need to live near an office, but you must be physically located in Illinois or Wisconsin at the time of the appointment.
Learn about telehealth neurology →Call to schedule
Illinois appointments: 815-337-7100. Wisconsin appointments: 262-245-0535.
Choose your visit
Our office will confirm whether an in-person or telehealth visit is appropriate and provide the details.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.