EPILEPSY Would you know what to do if someone had an Epileptic seizure. Epilepsy is a condition that affects the brain and causes repeated seizures, the most common symptom of epilepsy, also known as fits. During a seizure, the electrical impulses are disrupted, which can cause the brain and body to behave strangely. The severity of the seizures can differ from person to person. Some people simply experience a ‘trance-like’ state for a few seconds or minutes, while others lose consciousness and have convulsions (uncontrollable shaking of the body). Recognizing epileptic convulsions: • The person goes stiff. • Loses consciousness. • Collapses to the floor. • Begins to jerk or convulse. • They may look a little blue around the mouth. Action to be taken is ACTION: • A ssess the situation and remove any nearby objects that may cause injury. • C ushion their head with such as a jumper to avoid head injury. • T ime is important. If the seizure last more than 5 minutes call an ambulance. • I dentity cards or bracelets may provide info of their condition & treatment. • O ver. Once the seizure is over place them in the Recovery Position. • N ever restrain the patient, put something in the mouth nor give food or drink. Call an Ambulance if: • You know it is the patients first seizure. • The seizure last longer than 5 minutes. • The seizure is quickly followed by another. • The patient is injured during the seizure. • You believe the patient to need medical attention. Many people who suffer from Epilepsy prefer not to go to hospital as they know from experience that they will be alright within 20 to 30 minutes. If they are with family or friends ask about their history. If an Ambulance is required gather as much information as you can, confirming how long it lasted and the severity of the seizure. As with any patient be calm and reassuring.
Posted on: Thu, 22 Aug 2013 08:02:12 +0000
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