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What
is Epilepsy ?
Epilepsy is a common neurological
disorder affecting about two in 100 people. Three out of four cases begin
in childhood.
A
seizure is caused when more than the usual amount of electrical energy
passes through the brain. The portion of the brain affected by this "overload"
causes temporary changes in body movement, consciousness and behavior.
Epilepsy
is not contagious, it is not a disease. It can be caused by head injury,
auto accidents, severe illness, tumors and other health conditions.
Recognition
of seizure disorders and knowledge of first aid is important because it
is very easy to mistake some seizures for some other conditions.
Could
it be Epilepsy ?
Only
a physician can say for sure whether or not a person has epilepsy. But
many people miss the more subtle signs of the condition and therefore
also miss the opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment.
The
symptoms listed below are not necessarily indicators of epilepsy and may
be caused by some other, unrelated condition. However, if one or more
is present, a medical check-up is recommended:
- Periods
of blackout or confused memory
- Occasional
"fainting spells" in which bladder or bowl control is lost,
followed by extreme fatigue.
- Episodes
of blank staring in children: brief periods when there is no response
to questions or instructions.
- Sudden
falls for no apparent reason.
- Episodes
of blinking or chewing at inappropriate times.
- A
convulsion, with or without fever.
- Frequent
jerking movements in babies.
How
many Types are There?
There
are over 30 types of seizures classified into three major categories:
- Partial
- arise in a specific portion of the brain
- General
- both hemispheres of the brain
- Unclassified
- Inadequate / incomplete data available. The most common seizure types
are generalized tonic-clonic, absence and complex partial seizures.
Generalized
Tonic-Clonic
Formally known as the "grand
mal" seizure, this is a convulsive seizure affecting the whole body,
The seizure may start with a crying out. The person falls, becomes unconscious
and his body stiffens, followed by jerking motions, The person slowly
regains consciousness but is tired and confused. The seizure usually lasts
2-4 minutes.
First
Aid - protect from nearby hazards. Loosen ties or shirt collars. Protect
the head from injury. Turn on side and keep airway clear. Reassure when
consciousness returns. Do not put anything hard in the mouth. Don't give
liquids during or just after seizure.
Absence
Seizures
Formally
called "petit mal", it is the most common in children. There
is no aura before the seizure. The seizure consists of a brief loss of
consciousness
(10-20 seconds). Staring and blinking are associated with this type of
seizure. Dozens, or even hundreds may occur each day. They may be mistaken
for day dreaming. No first aid necessary, but if this is the first observation
of the seizure(s), medical evaluation should be recommended. Don't shout,
grab or try to "snap" the person out of it.
Complex
Partial Seizures
Formally known as "psychomotor"
or "temporal lobe" seizure. It is accompanied by an aura or
"warning". During the seizure, a person may have a glassy stare,
give no response, move aimlessly, make lip-smacking or chewing motions,
may appear intoxicated, drugged or psychotic. There may be struggle or
fighting of restraint.
First
Aid - consists of speaking calmly and reassuringly to patient. Guide
gently away from obvious hazards. Stay with the person until he is completely
aware of environment. Don't Try to restrain unless there is a possibility
of sudden danger (such as an approaching car.) Don't expect verbal instructions
to be obeyed.
First
Aid for Seizures in Special Circumstances
A seizure in water - If a seizure
occurs in water, the person should be supported in the water with the
head tilted so his face and head stay above the surface. He should be
removed from the water as quickly as possible with the head in this position.
Once on dry land, he should be examined.
A
seizure on public transportation - Ease the person across a double
or triple seat. Turn him on his side and follow the same steps as indicated
above. If he wishes to do so, there is no reason why a person who has
fully recovered from a seizure can not complete the trip to his destination.
Is
an Emergency Room visit needed?
An
uncomplicated convulsive seizure in someone who has epilepsy is not a
medical emergency even though it looks like one. It stops naturally after
a few minutes without ill effects. The average person is able to continue
with his normal activities after a rest period and may need only limited
assistance, or no assistance at all, in getting home.
However,
there are several medical conditions other than epilepsy that can cause
seizures. These require immediate medical attention and include:
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