20 Questions

Seizure Questions to Ask

Important questions to ask about seizures, epilepsy, and seizure management to better understand the condition, treatment options, and how to provide appropriate support.

1

What type of seizures do you experience?

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Why this works

Helps you understand the specific nature of their condition and what to expect during a seizure episode.

2

How often do your seizures occur?

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Why this works

Provides insight into the frequency and pattern of their seizures, which is important for understanding their condition.

3

What triggers your seizures?

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Why this works

Reveals potential triggers that can help you understand what to avoid or be aware of in their environment.

4

What medications are you taking for seizure control?

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Why this works

Shows their current treatment plan and helps you understand what medications they're using to manage their condition.

5

How do you know when a seizure is coming on?

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Why this works

Reveals warning signs or auras that can help you recognize when they might need assistance or support.

6

What should I do if you have a seizure?

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Why this works

Provides crucial information about how to help them safely during a seizure episode.

7

How long do your seizures typically last?

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Why this works

Helps you understand the duration of their seizures and when to seek additional medical help.

8

What should I avoid doing during a seizure?

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Why this works

Prevents harmful actions and ensures you don't accidentally cause injury during a seizure episode.

9

Do you have any dietary restrictions related to your seizures?

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Why this works

Reveals any dietary considerations that might affect their seizure control or overall health.

10

What activities should you avoid due to your seizures?

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Why this works

Shows any limitations or restrictions they have and helps you understand what activities might be unsafe.

11

How do your seizures affect your daily life?

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Why this works

Provides insight into the impact of their condition on their daily activities and quality of life.

12

What support do you need during recovery after a seizure?

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Why this works

Reveals what assistance they might need after a seizure and how you can help them recover.

13

Are there any emergency contacts I should know about?

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Why this works

Ensures you have the right people to contact in case of an emergency or if they need medical assistance.

14

What should I do if a seizure lasts longer than usual?

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Why this works

Provides guidance on when to seek emergency medical help and what constitutes a medical emergency.

15

How do your seizures affect your sleep?

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Why this works

Reveals any sleep-related issues and helps you understand how seizures might impact their rest and recovery.

16

What lifestyle changes have you made to manage your seizures?

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Why this works

Shows their approach to managing their condition and what adjustments they've made to their lifestyle.

17

How do you handle stress and its impact on your seizures?

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Why this works

Reveals their stress management strategies and helps you understand how stress might affect their condition.

18

What should I know about your seizure action plan?

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Why this works

Provides specific instructions for managing their seizures and ensures you understand their personalized care plan.

19

How do your seizures affect your work or school?

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Why this works

Shows the impact on their professional or academic life and helps you understand any accommodations they might need.

20

What questions should I ask your healthcare provider?

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Why this works

Helps you understand what information to gather from their medical team to better support them.

Best Practices for Seizure Support

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Support Strategies

Educate Yourself

Learn about their specific type of seizures, triggers, and management strategies to provide better support.

Be Prepared

Know what to do during a seizure, have emergency contacts ready, and understand their seizure action plan.

Show Empathy and Understanding

Be patient, understanding, and supportive, recognizing that seizures can be challenging and unpredictable.

Conversation Approach

The Supportive Inquiry

1
Start with: 'What type of seizures do you experience?'
2
Follow with: 'How can I best support you during a seizure?'
3
Ask: 'What should I know about your seizure management?'

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don't Make Assumptions

Avoid assuming you know what to do during a seizure. Ask them directly about their specific needs and preferences.

Don't Panic

Stay calm during a seizure and follow their specific instructions rather than making assumptions about what to do.

Don't Ignore Their Needs

Take their condition seriously and don't dismiss their concerns or needs related to their seizures.

Support Framework

The Seizure Support Process

1
Step 1: Learn about their specific condition and needs
2
Step 2: Understand their seizure action plan
3
Step 3: Know what to do during a seizure
4
Step 4: Be prepared for emergencies
5
Step 5: Provide ongoing support and understanding
6
Step 6: Communicate regularly about their needs

Further Reading

Epilepsy and seizure management
First aid for seizures
Supporting someone with epilepsy
Understanding seizure triggers and management

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