How well do you understand epilepsy? Get the details!
Epilepsy is a condition of the brain that produces recurrent seizures. There are numerous subtypes of epilepsy and seizure types. Epilepsy can hinder a person’s quality of life, especially if seizures persist. People with epilepsy may utilize medication, surgery, medical gadgets, or a particular diet to control their seizures.
Here’s what you need to know: Epilepsy is a common condition.
In fact, you likely know several individuals with epilepsy. There are around 3 million adults and 470,000 children (under the age of 18) with active epilepsy in the United States, according to estimates. 1 Approximately the same amount of people live in New Mexico, Vermont, and West Virginia collectively. 2
#2 Seizures may appear differently than expected.
What images come to mind when you consider a seizure? In movies and on television, people frequently fall to the ground, shake, and lose awareness of their surroundings. This is a type of seizure, but it is not the most prevalent. The majority of the time, a person experiencing a seizure will appear bewildered, may stare into space, wander, make strange gestures, or be unable to respond to questions. It can be difficult to discern whether a person is experiencing a seizure, so it is essential to be able to identify the different types of seizures.
Older man stroking his temple
Seizures may not appear as expected. Learn to recognize the symptoms of seizures and how to provide assistance.
#3 Epilepsy first aid is simple to administer.
Approximately one in ten persons will experience a seizure in their lifetime.
3 Because seizures are prevalent, you may one day need to assist someone. First aid for seizures consists of keeping the individual safe until the seizure ends on its own and knowing when to call 911.
Professionals, such as school nurses and other school workers, have access to free seizure response training classes. Through a partnership with the Epilepsy Foundation, the CDC also provides free seizure first aid certification so that anybody may learn how to spot a seizure, administer first aid, and phone for help.
People with epilepsy can live productive lives.
Most individuals with epilepsy are able to perform the same tasks as those without epilepsy. There are numerous epileptics who are successful in medical, athletics, entertainment, government, and other fields.
People with uncontrolled seizures or severe forms of epilepsy may find it more difficult to work or attend school consistently. Some epileptic individuals have difficulty finding employment, transportation, and inexpensive health care. Find support resources on the CDC’s Find Support page.
#5 Some epilepsy causes are avoidable.
Three women are seated next to one another, grinning and holding cups.
People with epilepsy require understanding from others in order to feel comfortable and supported.
Epilepsy can be caused by a variety of disorders affecting the brain. Frequently, physicians do not know the cause. Examples of preventable causes of epilepsy include traumatic brain traumas, stroke, certain infections (such as cysticercosis, the main cause of epilepsy worldwide), lack of oxygen during delivery, and certain birth deformities. Learn more about epilepsy prevention and risk reduction.