What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a disease of the nervous system characterized by repeated seizures that have no immediate cause. Epileptic seizures are caused by a functional disorder in the physical brain.
Types of Seizures:
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Partial Seizures
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Seizure activity in one area of the brain
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Generalized Seizures
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Seizure activity throughout the entire brain
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Seizure First Aid:
Seizures cannot be stopped, so your job is to keep the individual experiencing one safe.
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Stay calm and let the seizure take its course
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Time the seizure
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Protect them from injury by easing them to the floor and placing something soft under their head
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Loosen any tight clothing around their neck and remove glasses
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DO NOT restrain the person
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DO NOT put anything in their mouth
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Gently roll them once their seizure eases, to allow fluids from their mouth to flow out
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When they begin regaining consciousness, reassure them that they’ve just had a seizure and stay with them
Excellent resources on epilepsy and seizure disorders:
Click the images to access the sites
Facts about Epilepsy including:
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Definition
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Signs and Symptoms
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Rates of Disease
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Causes
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Treatment
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Prevention
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Social and Economic Impacts
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Human Rights
Challenges with Epilepsy including:
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Seizure Emergencies
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Injuries and Illnesses
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Thinking and Memory
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Moods and Behaviour
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Bone Health
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Sleep and Epilepsy
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Social Concerns
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Risks During Pregnancy
Seizure First Aid:
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Whether to call 911
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First Aid for Various Types of Seizures
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DOs and DON'Ts
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Training for Professionals