Visiting your doctor

Last updated 16 Nov 2011, review date due 16 Mar 2013

These pages are about using the National Health Service in the UK. If you are looking for information about using the health service in another country, please contact your local epilepsy organisation.

Introduction

This page is a guide to questions you may wish to ask the doctor that you see about your epilepsy. This might be your family doctor, epilepsy specialist, or epilepsy specialist nurse.

In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guideline suggests that if you have epilepsy, you should have a meeting with a health professional, a doctor or nurse, at least once a year, whether or not you are experiencing any particular problems. This is an opportunity to make sure that you are getting the best treatment for your epilepsy.

Understanding your own epilepsy and monitoring your situation, for example by keeping a seizure diary, will give you the confidence to ask questions if necessary.

More information about keeping a seizure diary

Preparing for your appointment

You may find it helpful to organise your thoughts before you go, for example by making brief notes or a list of questions.

Be persistent in asking your questions until you fully understand the explanation.

You might find it helpful for a close relative or friend to go with you. They can offer support and may also be able to help with information such as describing exactly what happens when you have a seizure.

If there is not enough time to cover all your questions, ask for another appointment.