Epilepsy is more common than most people realize. In the general population, approximately one person in a hundred has epilepsy. Although epilepsy is often considered a disorder of childhood, it can begin at any age, and in some people, it persists from childhood to old age. Epilepsy can affect people of all ages and all nationalities. The causes of epilepsy vary according to the age of the onset of epilepsy.
The rate of newly diagnosed epilepsy is higher in elderly people than in middle-aged adults. The elderly are more sensitive than younger people to a variety of mental, physical and environmental stressors. They are also more likely to develop many medical, neurological and psychiatric disorders, some of which can make seizures more likely to occur. Such disorders include metabolic changes such as very high or very low blood sugar, very low sodium levels and endocrine disorders (for example, diabetes, thyroid or parathyroid disorders).
Caring for a person with epilepsy requires knowledge on a variety of topics. For example, it is important that you know the type of seizure the person you are caring for has so that you are knowledgeable on the proper first aid for that seizure. It is also important that you understand the treatments they are receiving and are aware of the other treatment options. The support and care of a caregiver can be invaluable in helping the individual to make informed decisions, to maintain a positive attitude, to adhere to medical advice, and live a full and rewarding life.
Caregivers can be of great assistance in managing seizures and in ensuring the safety of the individual during and after the seizure. Most seizures last from seconds to minutes. This period results in the person temporarily experiencing fatigue, confusion, and/or a headache. Often the person will want to sleep. Talking reassuringly and staying with the person until he or she is re-oriented is important.
Also Read: What Can Happen If Epilepsy Medicine Doses Are Missed: A Guide to Understanding the Risks
A person who has been diagnosed with epilepsy may experience a range of emotions such as anger, frustration and depression. Concern for the future and negative responses from friends and family can leave a person feeling vulnerable and alone. Depression is more common in individuals with epilepsy than it is in the general population. This could be due to psychosocial factors, the seizures themselves, and/or to seizure medication. As a caregiver, it is important to realize that mood changes can be a side effect of seizure medication or that a person who is distressed or is experiencing isolation may act out negatively as the result of frustration or anger. Being patient, encouraging the person to talk about his or her feelings with someone, and recording behaviour changes to provide to the doctor, are all helpful ways to promote well-being. If a person with epilepsy seems uncharacteristically depressed, encourage a visit to the doctor to discuss these feelings. The doctor may make adjustments in the seizure medication in order to determine whether these issues are due to medication side effects.
Caregivers can assist the individual in complying with medical direction and can be actively involved in communicating with health care professionals.
While some people are not able to identify specific events or circumstances that affect seizures, others are able to recognize definite seizure triggers. It is useful to monitor seizure triggers so that seizures can be avoided. Caregivers can assist an individual with epilepsy by helping to assess what triggers seizures and by helping the individual to avoid them.
Some common seizure triggers include:
Also Read: Importance of Diet for Epilepsy: A Closer Look at Research-Based Findings
People with epilepsy can participate in most recreational activities and sports. These activities can enhance well-being and maintain health. There is some evidence that regular exercise may improve seizure control. Some activities are considered too dangerous and others pose some risk due to the possibility of head injury. Participation in recreational activities and sports should be discussed with the doctor.
Also Read: Foods to Avoid When Taking Lamotrigine: A Detailed Guide for Safe Consumption
Caregivers can also facilitate the development of a support system for the individual within the community that involves family, friends, neighbours and professionals.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
Seizures start in and affect a specific part of the brain- either a very small area or a large area. What happens during a seizure is solely determined by which part of the brain is affected and what that part of the brain is responsible for the seizure.
Epileptic fits and seizures are broadly classified into two main types- focal seizures and generalized seizures.
During focal seizures, a person is usually aware of the seizure and knows what is happening. It could range from a twitching muscle to a sudden surge of emotion, like happiness, joy or fear. In a generalized seizure, however, both sides of the brain are affected and more often than not, these seizures occur suddenly. The person loses his consciousness and doesn’t recall the seizure later. The first aid given for the seizures usually depends on the type of seizure.
Also Read: Foods to Avoid When Taking Lamotrigine: A Detailed Guide for Safe Consumption
Also Read: Importance of Diet for Epilepsy: A Closer Look at Research-Based Findings
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
