Keeping A Record Of Seizures

Keeping A Record Of Seizures

It is very helpful to keep an up to date record of your child's seizures. 

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What kind of things should I write down after my child's seizure?

It's helpful to write down answers to as many of the following as you can.
 
  1. What were they doing when it started?
  2. How did it start?
  3. Which part of the body was first involved?
  4. How did it progress?
  5. Did it include both arms and legs?
  6. Were they aware of it happening?
  7. At what point did they lose awareness?
  8. Did they lose consciousness?
  9. Was there a change in colour?
  10. How long did it last?
  11. Were they sleepy or disorientated afterwards?
  12. Afterwards, did they have trouble moving one side of their body?
  13. Did they miss any medicine today?
  14. Has there been a recent change in medicine?
  15. What did they feel before or during the seizure?

Videoing the seizure

  1. It is really helpful for you to video the seizure to show your doctor.
  2. Make sure your child is safe before you start videoing - or get someone else to video for you while you help your child.
  3. When you video a seizure it is good to get your child's whole body in the screen not just their head.

Using a calendar

If your child has frequent seizures, it's a good idea to record the date on a calendar - either on paper or on your phone. This is helpful for your doctor.

Acknowledgements

The content on this page has been developed and approved by the Paediatric Neurology Clinical Network, Paediatric Society New Zealand. 

This page last reviewed 07 April 2021.

Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 any time of the day or night for free health advice when you need it