Information for people with epilepsy

Who we are and what we do

We are a team of experienced nurses with expertise in the care and treatment of epilepsy.

We provide a link between the person with epilepsy, the consultant neurologists and the GP.

We work in community nurse-led clinics, offering advice, support and education. In exceptional circumstances home visits can be arranged.

We can:

• help you understand all you need to know about being newly diagnosed with epilepsy
• provide explanations and information on investigations and treatment options
• help with ongoing management of epilepsy
• advise how to help identify triggers

for seizures

• provide lifestyle advice on how to maintain good seizure control and keep you safe
• give advice and monitor medicine changes
• complete a comprehensive assessment of your epilepsy
• advise about preventing prolonged seizures and first aid information
• give support and advice regarding special situations, for example, pregnancy and

rescue medication guidelines

• support young adults transferring to our service

Why have I been referred to the Adult Epilepsy Specialist Service?

You have been referred to us because you need support to help manage your seizures or because you have recently been diagnosed with epilepsy.

Referrals will be accepted from your consultant neurologist if you have an established diagnosis of epilepsy and continue to have seizures and require medication changes.

If you have been seen by us before but were discharged no more than two years ago, you can be re-referred by your GP if your epilepsy becomes active again and it is possible to make medication changes or consider other treatment options.

Your GP may also refer directly for specific advice on pregnancy issues.

Where are the clinics?

Nurse-led clinics are held at various locations throughout Kent.

Home visits can be arranged for people who are housebound and are unable to leave home without specialist assistance. Please contact us to discuss your needs.

What will happen at my appointments?

Your first appointment will be with an epilepsy nurse, who will complete a full assessment.

We would like you to be fully involved when planning your care and setting goals. Helping you to self-manage your epilepsy is key to improving your health and keeping you safe.

The first appointment can take up to one hour. Following appointments are 30 minutes. To aid this review, we ask you to provide us with information on your current medications and a diary of seizure activity.

Contact us

Phone: 0300 123 3167

Mobile: 07900 213 584

Email: kentchft.epilepsynursing@nhs.net

Other useful contacts

Epilepsy Action

Helpline: 0808 800 5050

UK text service: 0753 7410044

Website: www.epilepsy.org.uk

 

Epilepsy Society

Phone: 01494 601300

Helpline: 01494 601400

Website: www.epilepsysociety.org.uk

 

My appointments

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