Primary prevention
Prevention depends on the aetiology of the generalised tonic-clonic seizure.
For provoked seizures, avoidance of the exposure or provoking substance, such as toxins, illicit substances, or medications, is the primary prevention measure. In the case of formally diagnosed epilepsy, individual seizures may sometimes be prevented by avoiding known precipitating factors. Good sleep hygiene and avoiding alcohol, certain illicit substances, and emotional stress may prevent seizures in some cases.
Preventable causes of epilepsy can be reduced by public health measures. Examples include brain injury prevention, stroke prevention, improving maternal and child health care to reduce antenatal and perinatal problems, and immunisation and public sanitation to reduce infection.[10]
Adherence to prescribed medical regimen is likely to optimise seizure control.[28] Some medications for comorbidities may lower the seizure threshold. These include analgesics, antibiotics, anaesthetic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, and any medication with psychoactive properties.[23] Caution should be practised when using such medications.
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