What are the implications of seizures post Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 8, 2025 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

If you've experienced a seizure after having COVID-19, you should seek immediate medical attention through your primary care physician or an emergency department. Post-COVID seizures have been reported and may be related to neurological complications of the infection, as highlighted in a recent study published in Nature Reviews Microbiology 1. This study found that cognitive impairment, seizures, dementia, psychosis, and other neurocognitive conditions persisted for at least 2 years after COVID-19 infection.

Key Considerations

  • The exact cause of post-COVID seizures is not fully understood, but possible mechanisms include neuroinflammation, damage to blood vessels, and injury to neurons 1.
  • A neurologist will likely perform tests including an EEG (electroencephalogram), brain imaging (MRI or CT scan), and blood tests to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
  • Common anti-seizure medications that might be prescribed include levetiracetam (Keppra), lamotrigine (Lamictal), or valproic acid (Depakote), typically starting at lower doses and adjusting as needed.

Safety Precautions

  • While awaiting medical care, ensure your safety by avoiding driving, operating machinery, swimming alone, and create a safe environment by removing sharp objects and furniture with hard edges from your surroundings.
  • It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan, as treatment depends on the type of seizure, medical history, and other factors. COVID-19 can affect the nervous system through direct viral invasion, inflammatory responses, or blood clotting abnormalities, which may trigger seizures in some individuals 1.

From the Research

Post Covid Seizure Overview

  • Post Covid seizure is a potential complication of COVID-19, with some patients experiencing seizures after recovery from the initial infection 2.
  • Seizures can occur in patients with COVID-19, particularly those with severe cases or underlying neurological conditions 3, 4.
  • The management of seizures in COVID-19 patients may require careful consideration of antiepileptic drug interactions and potential side effects 3, 5, 6.

Seizure Management in COVID-19 Patients

  • Levetiracetam, midazolam, and sodium valproate are commonly used antiepileptic drugs in the management of seizures in COVID-19 patients 3.
  • Midazolam may be effective in preventing recurrent seizures in COVID-19 patients, with no reported cases of recurrent seizures in patients receiving this medication 3.
  • Patients with COVID-19 who experience seizures may require close monitoring and adjustment of their antiepileptic medication regimen to minimize the risk of recurrent seizures and other complications 3, 6.

Post Covid Seizure as a "Long-COVID" Complication

  • Post Covid seizure can be a feature of "long-COVID", with some patients experiencing seizures weeks or months after initial recovery from COVID-19 2.
  • The exact mechanisms underlying post Covid seizure are not fully understood, but may be related to the neurotropic and neuroinvasive capabilities of SARS-CoV-2 2, 4.
  • Further research is needed to understand the incidence, risk factors, and optimal management of post Covid seizure as a "long-COVID" complication 2.

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

5
Research

Management of COVID-19 in people with epilepsy: drug considerations.

Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 2020

Related Questions

What are the appropriate discussions and follow-up for a 78-year-old male with low-grade, low-volume, Gleason 6 prostate cancer on active surveillance, presenting with symptoms of urinary obstruction, including slow stream, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and nocturia, despite taking Flomax (tamsulosin)?
What are the complications of thyroid radiation exposure?
What is the half-life of Plavix (clopidogrel)?
What is the optimal time to check serum testosterone levels after intramuscular (IM) testosterone injection?
What is the duration for recovery of taste after discontinuation of Metformin (metformin), in the absence of vitamin B12 deficiency?
What is the cause of persistent right foot swelling and mild flank back pain in a patient with a history of pulmonary embolism (PE) in the left lung, currently taking Eloquis (apixaban), who initially presented with sudden leg pain, Achilles tendon swelling, and sharp right flank pain?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.

Ask Question