Epilepsy

Overview

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizure types range from brief absence spells to full tonic‑clonic episodes and can affect driving, work and confidence.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you receive swift consultant‑led assessment, on‑site MRI, same‑week EEG testing, personalised medication plans and outpatient rehabilitation to help you live safely and independently.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

• Clarifies seizure triggers and guides lifestyle adjustments
• Allows prompt anti‑seizure medication to cut seizure frequency
• Reduces injury risk from uncontrolled blackouts or falls
• Provides legal advice on driving and occupational safety
• Connects you to psychological and vocational support before anxiety or job loss develop

Symptoms That May Indicate Epilepsy

• Blackouts or blank stares lasting seconds to minutes
• Sudden stiffening, jerking or loss of awareness
• Episodes of déjà vu, unusual smells or rising stomach sensation
• Involuntary lip‑smacking, hand‑rubbing or wandering behaviour
• Muscle twitching just before sleep or on waking
• Confusion, headache or fatigue after unexplained collapses

Common Triggers and Risk Factors

• Family history of epilepsy or febrile convulsions
• Head injury, stroke, brain tumour or infection
• Sleep deprivation, stress or excessive alcohol
• Flashing lights or specific visual patterns (photosensitive epilepsy)
• Hormonal changes around menstruation
• Low blood sugar or electrolyte imbalance

When to Seek Medical Advice

Call 01295 252 281 for an urgent neurology appointment if you experience:

• Two or more unexplained seizures or blackouts
• A first convulsive seizure lasting under five minutes (longer seizures require 999)
• New déjà vu episodes, blank spells or unexplained falls

Seek emergency care via 999 if a seizure lasts more than five minutes, repeats without recovery or causes injury.

How We Diagnose and Monitor Epilepsy

1  Consultant Neurology Assessment – detailed seizure history, witness reports and examination in our Neurology Service.
2  On‑Site MRI Brain – high‑resolution imaging in the Imaging Centre to identify structural causes.
3  Same‑Week EEG – standard, sleep‑deprived or ambulatory recordings analyse brain‑wave patterns.
4  Blood Tests – glucose, calcium, magnesium, liver and renal panels to exclude metabolic mimics.
5  Multidisciplinary Review – neurologist, radiologist and epilepsy nurse agree your personalised plan.
6  Annual or Biannual Follow‑Up – seizure diary review, medication levels and repeat imaging or EEG when indicated.

Treatment and Continuing Support

• First‑Line Medication – sodium valproate, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, carbamazepine or ethosuximide chosen to match seizure type and lifestyle.
• Medication Titration Clinic – fortnightly reviews to find the lowest effective dose and minimise side effects.
• Rescue Protocols – buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam plans for prolonged seizures.
• Lifestyle Coaching – sleep hygiene, alcohol limits, stress‑reduction techniques and photosensitive advice.
• Women’s Health Counselling – pregnancy planning, contraception and folic‑acid guidance with our Dietetic Team.
• Driving and Employment Support – documentation for DVLA, workplace risk assessments and phased return‑to‑work programmes.
• Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy – strength, balance and home‑safety modifications to prevent injury.
• Psychology and Support Groups – cognitive‑behavioural therapy for anxiety, memory strategies and peer networks.

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Neurology appointments usually within one week
• State‑of‑the‑art MRI and same‑week EEG in one location
• Small, dedicated epilepsy team offering continuity and flexible follow‑up
• Outpatient rehab gym, therapy kitchen and quiet rooms—no hospital stay required
• Free on‑site parking, calm surroundings and easy travel from Oxford, Warwick and Northampton

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Epilepsy Be Cured?
About 60 % of people achieve long‑term seizure freedom on medication. Some structural causes can be surgically treated; we coordinate referrals when appropriate.

Will I Have to Stop Driving Forever?
Usually not. You must inform the DVLA and remain seizure‑free for at least one year (or six months for certain seizure types) before reapplying.

Is It Safe to Exercise?
Yes. Regular activity can improve seizure control and mood. High‑risk sports such as climbing or swimming need precautions; our physiotherapists advise on safety.

Take Control of Your Seizures

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to book your epilepsy assessment and personalised management plan.

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