WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT EPILEPSY

An acquiaintance falls to the ground,unconscious, His body stiffens, and his head and limbs begin to convulse. If you know that the person suffers from epilepsy, you can provide adequate assistance while waiting for help.

Let us explore some basic facts about this often misunderstood disorder

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a brain disorder that produces brief attacks called seizures. The entire seizure usually last less than five minutes.

The situation described at the outset of this article is typical of what is called a grand malseizure

What is the causes of this seizures?

Researchers believe that seizures occur when there is an abnormal surge of electrical activity between brain cells, just why this happens remains unclear.

If you see someone with epilepsy having a grand malseizure,what should you do?

You should let the attack run its course and not interfere with the patient, beyond checking the person is in no physical danger and can breath;…….says The Encyclopaedia of the Brain and brain Disorders, On the other hand, the book says;…..An ambulance should be called if the seizure continues for more than five minutes. If another seizure immediately follows the first, or if the person does not regain consciousness a few minute after the seizure ends.

How can you help the patient while he is having a seizure?

Place a soft object between his head and the foor, and move sharp objects away from his head, When the convulsions stop, turn the patient on his side as shown in the accompanying diagram.

What should you do after the patient awakens?

First ,assure him that everything is all right. Then help him to stand upright and guide him to a place where he can get needed rest. Most people are confused and sleepy after a seizure, Others recover quickly and can continue what they were doing before the attack.

Do all epileptic seizures include convulsions?

No.Some patients experience a moment of impaired awareness without evev falling to the ground. This is called a petit mal seizure or absence seizure, Which is usually brief with no lingering after effects. Some people with epilepsy undergo prolonged petit mal seizures, Lasting several minutes. In such a case , the patient may wonder around the room, tug at his clothing,or otherwise behave strangely . After the seizure, he may feel light-headed.

What is it like to live with epilepsy?

Understandably, Many people with epilepsy contend with a nagging fear of when and where the next seizure will occur. To avoid embarrassment, They may tend to avoid social situation.

How can you give support to someone who has epilepsy?

Encourage the patient not to bottle up his feelings.Be a good listener. Ask the patient what he or she would like you to do if he has a seizure. Since many people with epilepsy do not drive, perhaps you could offer a ride or run some errands for him.

Can seizures be reduced or even prevented?

Some factors increase the likelihood of a seizure, Such as stress and lack of sleep. Experts therefore encourage epileptics to get proper rest and to exercise regularly in order reduce stress. In some cases, Medications have also been effective in preventing seizure.

The recovery position-

1 After convulsing has stopped………..

Kneel beside the patient and bend his arm at the elbow, pointing it upward

2 Gently tuck the hand of the patient”s other arm underneath his cheek

3 With your other hand, pull the patient”s knee toward you, slowly rolling him over. Then move the patient’s knee in front of his body so that it rests on the floor

4 Tilt  the patient”s head up to allow  for unobstructed breathing