Why it’s a good idea to keep a seizure diary

A seizure diary is a way to record details and information about your epilepsy. Many may think they don’t need one, but a seizure diary can be an incredibly useful way to get a better overview of a person’s epilepsy stretching back weeks, months and years. Even people with really good memories are likely to forget some details that could prove to be essential to managing epilepsy.

What you should record in your seizure diary

There are various specific things that it’s useful to document in a seizure diary, however, it’s worth noting down anything that you feel to be relevant, even if it might prove to be ultimately insignificant.

Some common things to document include:

Seizures

Note down the dates, times and type of seizure you have, as well as how long it lasted. If there’s anything that’s different about this seizure or something you haven’t experienced before, keep a note of that too.

Medication

You don’t have to record every time you take your medication unless you want to. However, you might note down anything that changes, such as changes to your medication or if you miss taking it.

Side Effects

If you think something might be a potential side effect of the medication you’re taking then record it in your seizure diary as a reminder to ask your healthcare professional about it next time you speak.

Triggers

If you feel something might be a potential trigger, it’s worth detailing in your seizure diary so it can be compared to any past or future seizures. The diary will help you to identify patterns and hopefully get a better understanding of your epilepsy. See our post on some common and uncommon triggers here. 

Other things you could include:

Changes in environment

• Illness
• Low blood sugar (missing meals)
• Lack of sleep
• Alcohol
• Excitement
• Anxiety
• Photosensitivity
• Stress
• Saccharin
• Menstrual cycle

How does a seizure diary help?

A seizure diary is not just a way for you to document your epilepsy, it can also be an invaluable source of information for your healthcare professional that helps to determine future treatments. It will help you to focus your thoughts and ensure you get all of the information you require when talking with a healthcare professional.

Many people find them extremely helpful and it doesn’t have to be time-consuming. It can also help to reduce the risk of SUDEP. 

National Epilepsy Training can help

Get more information on managing your epilepsy from the team at National Epilepsy Training. For more information call us on 01706 373075 or email admin@nationalepilepsytraining.co.uk.