Epilepsy Risk Management

The cause, type, and frequency of seizures often vary between people. The evaluation and management of risk needs to take into account the person’s seizures and their unique circumstances. Ensuring that seizures are correctly diagnosed, treatment plans are followed and first aid information is available, minimises these risks.

Many people who witness a seizure fear that the person may be harmed, especially by a generalised convulsion, however, the risk of brain damage or death from a seizure is low.

Good safety and seizure management can reduce risks to a person with epilepsy.

There are many everyday things that can pose a safety hazard to a person with epilepsy. If your seizures are well controlled, you may find you are not as affected, however, safety is important to everyone. Safety precautions should be sensible and relevant to the person, with a balance between risk and restrictions. Everyone is different, and everyone’s experience of epilepsy is different, so some or all of the epilepsy risk management tips and suggestions in the fact sheet below may or may not apply to you.