What follow-up care should I provide for a patient after their first seizure, including lifestyle advice and monitoring?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

After a first seizure, provide the person, and their family and carers if appropriate, with information on how to recognize and manage a further seizure, including first aid and safety guidance (see safety issues in box 1) .

Advise them on any changes they can make to reduce their risk of another seizure, such as avoiding known triggers like sleep deprivation, alcohol, and social drugs .

Encourage recording any further episodes of possible seizures, for example using a video or seizure diary, to aid diagnosis and management .

Ensure the person is referred urgently for assessment within 2 weeks to a specialist with expertise in diagnosing epilepsy .

Provide ongoing support and information about lifestyle factors, safety, and the importance of medication adherence, as well as discussing the impact on daily activities and driving regulations .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.