Understanding Epilepsy By Natalie Conlee Understanding Epilepsy Diagnosis
Understanding Epilepsy By Natalie Conlee
Understanding Epilepsy Diagnosis Causes Treatment Effects How to Handle a Seizure
Diagnosis 1 in 26 people have epilepsy in the U. S. Epilepsy is having 2 or more seizures unprovoked Epilepsy can be diagnosed using tests Epilepsy can be the result of head trauma
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
What Causes Seizures? A seizure is an electrical storm in the brain. There is a optimum rate at which the neurons fire for normal function. Deviating from this rate can create neurological disorders
Treatment Medications—reduce or block certain transmitters from working. 40% of people taking medications continue to have seizures
Treatments Medications Vegus Nerve Stimulator Brain Surgery
Effects of Having Epilepsy Slowed Brain Function Brain Damage Mood Disorders Loss of Independence Many people with epilepsy cannot drive legally.
How to Handle a Seizure • • • Stay with them until its over Be calm and reassuring Support Head Loosen tight neckwear Place them on their side as soon as seizure is over Look for a medical ID bracelet or card
How to Handle a Seizure Do not restrain the person having the seizure Do not put anything in the person’s mouth
When to call 911 or EMS The seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes. They do not have an epilepsy ID card or bracelet. They are not waking up. They are having trouble breathing. They have injured themselves during the seizure. They are pregnant.
Understanding Epilepsy Understanding epilepsy is the key to making a “scary” condition more bearable We need to fund more research for cures, new medications, and alternative treatments
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