Epilepsy is a neurological disease that can vary greatly and require individual care. Here are some tips on how to help a person with epilepsy.
Basic knowledge about epilepsy:
1. Understand what epilepsy is – it is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
2. Seizures can be of various types – from brief loss of consciousness to severe convulsions.
3. Know that not all epileptic seizures are the same – some people may simply freeze or disconnect, while others may lose consciousness and experience strong body convulsions.
How to help during a seizure:
1. Stay calm.
- The most important thing is to remain calm and not panic.
2. Protect the person from injury.
- Remove sharp or dangerous objects that could cause injury.
- Place a soft object (e.g., a jacket) under the head if the person falls.
3. Do not restrain the person's movements.
- Do not try to hold back their convulsions, as this may cause injuries.
4. Do not leave the person alone.
- Stay nearby and monitor the situation until the seizure passes.
5. Do not put anything in the mouth.
- Despite popular myths, do not open the mouth or put any objects in it, as this can cause additional injuries.
6. Position the person on their side.
- If possible, gently turn the person onto their side to prevent choking.
7. Keep track of time.
- If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, it is necessary to call emergency services.
How to help after a seizure:
1. Stay close.
- After a seizure, the person may be confused, tired, or sleepy. Ensure calm and safety for their rest.
2. Explain what happened.
- Gently and patiently explain the situation if the person is disoriented.
3. Help them orient themselves.
- If needed, help them return to a safe place or call for assistance.
4. Do not offer anything.
- Do not give tablets, drinks, or food until the person fully recovers and requests it themselves.
What not to do during a seizure:
1. Do not hold or restrain the person's movements.
- Trying to restrain the person's movements can cause injuries to both them and you. A seizure is an uncontrollable process, and the body needs to move naturally.
2. Do not put anything in the mouth.
- There is a false belief that a person can "swallow their tongue." This is not true. Putting objects or fingers in the mouth can cause choking, dental, or jaw injuries.
3. Do not give food or drink.
- The person cannot safely swallow food or drinks during a seizure, which can cause choking.
4. Do not panic or shout.
- Although a seizure may look frightening, panic or shouting will not improve the situation. Calm behavior is very important to provide proper help.
5. Do not leave the person alone.
- Even if the seizure seems mild, the person may be confused or injured afterward. Stay with them until they fully recover.
When to call emergency services?
- If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- If the person does not regain consciousness after the seizure.
- If seizures occur repeatedly one after another.
- If the person is injured during the seizure.
- If this is the person's first seizure.
Long-term support:
1. Learn about the person's needs.
- Ask if they have an epilepsy management plan and how you can help if a seizure occurs.
2. Learn to recognize their symptoms.
- Some people feel warning signs before a seizure and may alert you.
3. Be prepared.
- If the person takes epilepsy medication, know where it is kept in case help is needed.
4. Encourage living a normal life.
- Support their independence and avoid stigmatization.
It should be understood that epilepsy is not an obstacle to living a full life, but the understanding and help of those around can greatly improve the quality of life of the person affected.
Take care of yourself and stay healthy ❤️
