Epilepsy

In Australia, approximately 250,000 are currently diagnosed with epilepsy, over 1% of the population so there’s a good chance you now someone with this condition. People generally think seizures are all convulsive, but epilepsy can take on many forms and affect people differently. 1/3 of people with epilepsy do not gain full seizure control with medication alone, with some require evaluation for surgery.

What is epilepsy?: Epilepsy is a common neurological condition of the brain brain characterised by the tendency to have spontaneous, recurrent seizures.

Who does it affect?: Epilepsy can affect anyone, at any age and persons of any intelligence, gender, or race.

What causes it?:  Epilepsy can be caused by head trauma, stroke, previous infections of the brain, or abnormalities of the brain from birth. Genetics can play a role in some people. Half of people with epilepsy do not ever find a cause for their epilepsy.

What is a seizure?: A seizure is a temporary disruption of the brain cells causing an abrupt burst of electrical activity in the brain. Not all seizures are convulsions. There are many different types of seizures that present in many ways including changes to sensation, awareness, behaviour or movement.

How is it treated?: The first choice of treatment is medication. Up to two thirds of people become seizure free with medication. Other treatment options include surgery, dietary options including Ketogenic Diet or Modified Atkins Diet; and also neuromodulation with vagal nerve stimulation, deep brain stimulation and responsive neurostimulation for seizures. Education and positive lifestyle changes are also important.

Can certain triggers set off a seizure?: Sometimes specific events or circumstances can increase the risk of having a seizure. These are usually called seizure triggers. Recognising these triggers can help to reduce or even avoid seizures. Some known triggers include lack of sleep, missed medication, fatigue, physical or emotional stress, hormonal changes and illness.

What’s the best way to help someone having a tonic clonic (convulsive) seizure? While seizures can be frightening, in most instances they stop without intervention. Once it is over the person gradually regains control and re-orients themselves to their surroundings, generally without any ill effects. Things to help someone you see having a convulsive seizure include:

1. Stay with the person

2. Time the seizure

3. Keep them safe. Protect from injury especially the head

4. Roll into recovery position after the seizure stops (or immediately if food/fluid/vomit is in mouth)

5. Observe and monitor their breathing

6. Gently reassure until recovered

7. Call an ambulance if there is an injury; if the seizure lasts for longer than five minutes; or if after the seizure ends the person is having breathing difficulties or is non-responsive