What is International Epilepsy Day?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition that causes recurrent seizures.

Seizures can be a devastating, life-challenging condition, however, there are many misconceptions about epilepsy.

Here are 8 things you should know about epilepsy.

  1. Seizures are more than just physical. Many people think of seizures as just convulsions. Epileptic patients also have symptoms of sensory perception. People may have a feeling of de ja vu, vision changes, or become overcome by psychological feelings.
  2. Seizures knows no age. Seizures are not just for kids. They can occur at any age.
  3. Seizures can be a medical emergency. If you see someone having a seizure greater than 5 min or not breathing, call 911 for help. DO NOT put anything in the person’s mouth.
  4. Surgical Treatment can be an option. For some people with epilepsy, surgery can help decrease or eliminate the occurrence of seizures.
  5. Blink and you will miss it. Some seizures may last just a few seconds and can consist of just a brief stare or quick twitch.
  6. Medication can help. There are many medications available that help manages epilepsy, and more are on the way.
  7. The cause may be difficult to find. Seizures can occur from a head injury, infections such as meningitis, high fever, low blood sugar, or some can have no known origin.
  8. You are not alone. Around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally.

Managing Epilepsy Well Checklist

Epilepsy can get in the way of life, mostly when seizures keep happening. You can learn how to manage your epilepsy to feel better and have a more active and full life. Practice these self-management strategies to better control your seizures and your health. Self-management is what you do to take care of yourself.

You manage your epilepsy well if you:

  • Know about your condition.
  • Take your seizure medicines as prescribed.
  • Check with your doctor before taking other medicines or supplements.
  • Keep a record of your seizures and seizure triggers to track patterns and learn how to avoid seizure triggers.
  • Get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.
  • Exercise regularly and safely each day.
  • Follow a well-balanced diet and keep a healthy weight.
  • Do not use tobacco, drink alcohol excessively, or abuse other substances.
  • Practice ways to lower stress.
  • Keep in touch with friends and family for support.
  • Talk to your doctor about health concerns.
  • Keep other health conditions in check.
  • Get help for emotional problems.
  • Use memory strategies to help with memory problems.

How well are you managing your epilepsy?
How many of the self-management strategies listed above do you already use to manage your epilepsy?

  • 0-3: You are on your way!
  • 3-5: Good job! Try to add a few more to your routine.
  • 5-10: Excellent! Keep up the good work!
  • 10 or more: You manage your epilepsy well!

Practicing self-management and still having seizures? Talk to your doctor about other treatment options.

Sources:
Managing Epilepsy | CDC
Epilepsy (who.int)
Do’s and Don'ts of Seizures | Northwestern Medicine