First Seizure
We are often contacted by people who have had a seizure and are looking for more information. This can be a worrying time and you may want to speak to someone about your concerns. Our helpline on 0808 800 2 200 provides the opportunity to do this in confidence.
Seizures can happen for many reasons including heart problems, faints and epilepsy. 1 in 20 people will have a seizure at some point in their lives. This does not necessarily mean they have epilepsy. It is important that the cause is looked into to find the most appropriate treatment, if any is required.
If you have experienced a seizure, or seizure like episode, and have not already been referred to a neurologist or epilepsy specialist, you can ask your GP to refer you. There is no single test to diagnose epilepsy so the doctor will ask questions about your medical history and what you have experienced. The diagnosis or ruling out of epilepsy is based on an eyewitness account. If someone saw you during the episode it will be useful to bring them to any medical appointments you have. Some tests such as a brain scan or EEG may be carried out.
The following information aims to answer some questions you may have. Call the helpline on 0808 800 2 200 with any others you have.
Driving regulations
DVLA regulations mean that anyone who has had a seizure will lose their driving licence for a year. You are required to inform the DVLA that you have had a seizure. You can do this by telephoning their medical unit on 0870 600 0301, or by completing a form available at:
Direct.gov.ukWith medical and DVLA approval, a person can have their licence returned after twelve months have passed and they have had no seizures. There are different regulations for people with sleep seizures. If 3 years have passed and a person has had only sleep seizures during this time, and no seizures whilst awake, they can have their driving licence back.
There are stricter guidelines for HGV / PCV licences. See our Driving Factsheet for more information:
Free bus travel
Many people find losing their driving licence one of the most difficult parts of having epilepsy. If you have lost your licence due to a seizure then you will be entitled to free bus travel throughout Scotland. Please call our helpline on 0808 800 2 200 for an application form and more information, or see:
Free Bus Pass section which explains how to apply
Safety
There are safety factors you may need to consider if you are having unpredictable seizures. These include taking precautions when bathing or showering.
A shower is considered as a safer alternative to a bath, although not entirely risk-free. Ensure that the water temperature control is working and never use very hot water. A shower with a flat floor is ideal. If this is not possible, avoid a shower with a high lip where the water could be trapped if you fall. Sitting in the shower can help avoid injury if you fall during a seizure.
See our Safety factsheet for more information on ways to reduce risk:
First aid
For information on first aid for friends, family and colleagues see our First Aid section.