A key message about epilepsy for GPs, according to Dr Fergus Rugg-Gunn, is that the condition is increasingly a condition of advancing age and distinguishing epilepsy from other conditions is even more challenging in older age groups because there are ‘many other potential health issues that could mimic seizures’.
In this episode of the Clinical Update podcast, Dr Rugg-Gunn speaks to Dawn Liz Powell about how taking a thorough patient history can help determine when symptoms may indicate epilepsy and when they may indicate another condition (such as syncope). He also discusses how to support a patient with a suspected diagnosis of epilepsy and how to support them after a diagnosis.
Common comorbidities associated with epilepsy, side-effects of anti-seizure medications, and potential drug interactions also reviewed in this episode.
Educational objectives
After listening to this podcast, healthcare professionals should be more aware of:
You can access the website version of this podcast, along with key learning points, on MIMS Learning. MIMS Learning offers hundreds of hours of CPD for healthcare professionals, along with a handy CPD organiser and note-taking for appraisal.
Please note: this podcast is presented by medical editors and discusses educational content written or presented by doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals on the MIMS Learning website and at live events.
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