November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. It’s important to be aware of what a seizure can look like, as it may not always be how one would initially expect. A lot of the time, a seizure doesn’t include rapid uncontrollable movements, and instead appear as someone seeming aloof or non-responsive to their environment.
Many types of epilepsy are treatable with medication and regular treatment schedules. Most men and women with epilepsy are able to work and live healthy and productive lives. Approximately 1/3 of individuals with epilepsy live with uncontrollable seizures. 65 million people worldwide receive a diagnosis of epileptic seizures, 3.4 million of which are U.S. citizens. It’s important to spread awareness of what epilepsy is, how to treat it, and to continue research for even better treatments.
Epilepsy is a condition of the brain that causes seizures. A disruption of communication between neurons causes a seizure. 6 out of 10 people don’t know the cause of their epileptic seizures because of the difficulty in diagnosing neural disorders.
Remember “Stay. Safe. Side.”
If you come across someone who displays seizure-like symptoms, please stay with them. Time the seizure and if it lasts longer than 5 minutes call 911. Call 911 if the person is pregnant, has difficulty breathing, is injured, or experienced multiple seizures. If you need to, move the person to keep them safe from harm. Do not restrain a seizing person or put any objects, food, medication, or water in their mouths. If the person is not aware or conscious, turn them onto their side to help avoid airway blockages.
Be sure the person is alert and fully aware of what just occurred once they awaken. If the person doesn’t seem alert or able to think clearly, or experienced a seizure for the first time, call 911. The most important thing is to stay by them, keep them safe, and turn them on their side.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: “National Epilepsy Awareness Month” by The Epilepsy Foundation | Photo
