Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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You have been given this information because you have come into the A&E department with a seizure and this suggests your epilepsy is not well controlled.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is defined as a tendency to have seizures (fits). Seizures can happen in any part of the brain and what a person experiences during a seizure will depend on where in the brain a seizure is happening. Up to 70% of people with epilepsy can achieve seizure control with optimal drug treatment (NICE NG217, 2025)
Why have I had a seizure?
Some reasons someone with epilepsy experiences breakthrough seizures include:
- Missed anti-seizure medications (ASM): This is common and may result from medication related concerns. If this is the case it is important you talk to your GP, Epilepsy Nurse or Neurologist. Some people may also find it difficult to remember to take tablets regularly. Phone alarms or dose boxes are often beneficial in this instance.
- Switching between different versions of the same ASM: NICE NG217 advises maintaining the same brand where possible. Discuss any issues with your pharmacist or GP.
- Triggers: stress, anxiety, excess alcohol intake, illegal drug use, illness (especially infections), sleep deprivation, dehydration, hormonal/metabolic changes, drug interactions.
Sometimes seizures occur without a clear trigger. In these cases, your medication or dose may need review.
Risks associated with seizures
Seizures can cause injuries, prolonged events, and rarely Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).
Should I see a specialist?
NICE, NG217 recommends a structured annual epilepsy review.
Your GP should review you yearly and refer you to a specialist if:
- seizures persist despite treatment,
- you have unacceptable side effects,
- you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
If you already known to the Neurology team at Frimley Park, please let the epilepsy nurses know.
Advice for further seizures
Make sure the people close to you know what to do if you have another seizure and lose consciousness. You will need to be protected from injury by moving harmful objects and cushioning your head. After the seizure has finished, they need to put you on your side in the recovery position to aid breathing until you are alert. They should stay with you until you have recovered and make a note of what happened or if possible, take a video of the seizure.
An ambulance is required only if:
- Tonic clonic seizure (not including the recovery) lasts more than 5 minutes
- One seizure follows another (clusters) without recovery between seizures
- You are taking longer than normal (max 10 minutes) to regain consciousness although you may still be drowsy, disorientated or agitated
- You are injured during a seizure, and the injury requires treatment/medical attention
- You have some new symptoms such as one-sided weakness or visual loss
If seizures are not controlled, avoid swimming alone, unsupervised baths, working at heights, hazardous machinery, or dangerous environments (roads, train tracks, water).
Recovery after a seizure
It is common to feel very tired, achy, nauseous, disoriented, or anxious afterwards. You may also develop a headache, sore mouth, or pain from any injury. These effects can last from a few hours to several days. Allow yourself plenty of rest, keep well hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Simple pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may help ease symptoms.
Driving
By law, you must stop driving immediately after a seizure and inform the DVLA. (DVLA, 2024). This is because a seizure can affect your ability to drive safely.
You must be seizure-free for 12 months before resuming driving. The exception is if you already hold a licence for sleep-only seizures and your most recent seizure was during sleep. We understand that stopping driving can be a significant issue which can be very upsetting and can affect many aspects of your life, however if you don’t stop driving you may be breaking the law and could face prosecution.
Useful Contacts
If you need any further advice or information the following contacts may be helpful:
Epilepsy Specialist Nurses
Frimley Park Hospital
03006 134082
fhft.adultepilepsyteam@
Wexham Hospital
07825 061135
fhft.epilepsy@
Epilepsy Action
0808 800 5050
www.
EpSMon
www.
Epilepsy Society
01494 601400
www.
Young Epilepsy
01342 832243
www.youngepilepsy.org.uk
DVLA
Drivers Medical Group,
Swansea SA99 1TU
Tel: 0300 790 6806
Email: eftd
Web: www.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Neurology service.
About this information
Service:
Neurology
Reference:
K/003
Approval date:
25 September 2025
Review date:
9 January 2028
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.