Although epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in the world, it's still misunderstood by many. For most people with epilepsy, the biggest problem they have to face is other people's attitudes to and knowledge of epilepsy.
Take a few minutes to read some handy information we’ve put together to help you better understand the condition and those affected by it.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition caused by abnormal chemical activity of the brain and causes repeated seizures.
The severity of seizures can differ from person to person. Some people simply experience an odd feeling with no loss of awareness, while others lose consciousness and have convulsions (uncontrollable shaking of the body).
8 Facts about epilepsy
How is epilepsy diagnosed?
The diagnosis of epilepsy is largely clinical, and an accurate description of the seizures and the circumstances in which they occur becomes very important. Find out as much as you can, because understanding your epilepsy will help you explain it to your doctors and family members. You may find it useful to prepare a list of questions before you visit your doctor.
Detailed descriptions will help in the diagnosis and may determine the need for further investigations such as blood tests and medical scans.
If you're suffering from epileptic seizures, visit your local community day centre for medical advice and medication.
Medication and helping yourself
The majority of people with epilepsy have their seizures controlled by anti-epileptic medication. The choice of drug depends not only on the type of seizure but also on the individual and it may take some time to achieve the right dose for each person.
Medication strengthens the resistance to seizures, so it’s most important to take the prescribed dose at the prescribed time.
Wearable technology
The computing company, Empatica, has created a seizure-tracking wristband called Embrace. It’s designed to detect and monitor stress signals and detect seizures, and has an accompanying app to help alert loved ones. The wrist-worn Embrace looks like a fitness tracker and is equipped with temperature sensors to detect changes in body heat, movement and even electric changes in the skin.
The device is designed to vibrate when it detects a seizure so the wearer can respond. Read more about the Embrace wrist watch.
Safety is important
If you remember some basic rules, you’ll minimise the likelihood of injury should you have a seizure. Make sure that whoever is with you is aware of your condition and knows what to do if you have a seizure.
How to recognise a seizure and what to do
The following table should be helpful in recognising seizures and assisting a person when a seizure occurs.
Seizure |
What it looks like |
How you can help |
Generalised absence |
The person looks blank and stares. There may be blinking or slight twitching. It lasts a few seconds then normal activity continues. |
Be reassuring. The person may be unaware of the seizure. Note that it has occurred. |
Generalised tonic-clonic
|
The common sequence is:
As breathing restarts normal colour returns. There may be blood flecked saliva and incontinence (rare). Can last a few minutes. |
Protect the person from injury. Cushion the head. Don’t restrict movement or put anything in the mouth. Help breathing by putting the person on to the side. Stay with him or her until fully recovered.
|
Complex partial
|
May start with a warning or “aura”. The person may appear confused or distracted. There may be repetitive movements, for example plucking at clothes. |
Remove harmful objects and guide the perso n away from danger. Talk quietly to reassure him or her.
|
Test your knowledge of epilepsy
Epilepsy South Africa wants you to ‘turn obstacles into true potential’ and invites you to take the following quick quiz to test your knowledge.
Connect with others affected by epilepcy
Do you have epilepcy and in need of support? You're not alone. Join Epilepcy South Africa's support group today and connect with other people who's also affected by epilepcy.