Epilepsy and sport — MRCGP AKT MCQ

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HardMedical Conditions in SportEpilepsy and sportMRCGP AKT

A 14-year-old with epilepsy has been seizure-free for 2 years and wants to swim competitively. What is the safest advice?

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Correct answer: A — Individual water-safety plan with supervision

The best answer is “Individual water-safety plan with supervision”. Epilepsy does not impose blanket exclusion from sport, but swimming needs an individual risk assessment, close informed supervision and an emergency plan, particularly because loss of consciousness in water can be fatal. Medication should not be stopped for participation and open water requires additional precautions.

Reference: NICE NG217: Epilepsies diagnosis and management: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng217/chapter/4-Principles-of-treatment-safety-monitoring-and-withdrawal