If I had a seizure once, am I likely to have another?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Having one seizure means you may be at risk for another, though the likelihood varies. Key factors include the underlying cause of the first seizure, brain imaging results, EEG findings, family history, and your overall health. Studies suggest the risk of a second seizure within two years ranges from 30% to 50%, with higher risk if an underlying neurological condition is identified.

Because seizure recurrence depends on so many personal factors, understanding your specific situation is important. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you evaluate your symptoms, identify possible causes, and guide your next steps—all in just a few minutes. It's a smart, private way to gain clarity before speaking with a doctor, so you can make informed decisions about your health with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if seizure recurrence is likely Discover likely causes of your seizures See if seizures need urgent care Find OTC options for seizure symptoms Find neurologists for seizure follow-up Understand home remedies for seizure recovery Find if another seizure may happen

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Explanation

Having a seizure can be a scary experience, and it's natural to wonder if it may happen again. The risk of having another seizure after the first one can vary.

Factors Influencing Recurrence:
The likelihood of having another seizure depends on factors such as the cause of the first seizure. If the first seizure was 'unprovoked,' meaning there was no clear cause like a fever or injury, the chance of recurrence may be higher.
Other factors, such as a family history of seizures or epilepsy, can also influence the likelihood of having another seizure.
Children and Seizures:
For children who have had a seizure, it's important to monitor their health as they grow. Some children may outgrow seizures, while others may continue to experience them into adulthood.

It's important to talk to a healthcare provider to better understand your specific situation and to discuss any concerns you may have. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms and want to better understand what might be happening, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help guide your next steps in managing your health and reducing the risk of further seizures.

(References)

Berg AT. (2008). Risk of recurrence after a first unprovoked seizure. Epilepsia, 18184149.
Camfield PR, & Camfield CS. (2014). What happens to children with epilepsy when they become .... Pediatric neurology, 24830766.
Tai PC, & Gross DW. (2004). Exacerbation of pre-existing epilepsy by mild head injury. The Canadian journal of neurological sciences. Le journal canadien des sciences neurologiques, 15376487.

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