Epilepsy Flashcards
What is status epilepticus?
More than 10 minutes of continuous seizure activity, or two or more sequential seizures, without full recovery of consciousness
What is the morbidity of status epilepticus?
Impaired cognition, loss of memory and loss of motor function
What is the first aid response for epilepsy?
- Call for assistance
- Protect them from hitting something
- Put them in the recovery position
- Look at your watch
- Calmly tell them what has happened
What are the guidelines for drug treatment of epilepsy?
- Regime individualised
- Medication taken 2-4 times daily
Why must blood levels be frequently monitored when taking anti-convulsive drugs?
High levels = toxic
Low levels = inadequate for seizure control
What is the duty of care for epileptic athletes?
- Find out what medication is being taken
- Look up the medication
- Be familiar with the side effects and general properties
What is the effect of anti-convulsive drugs on physiological performance?
No effect, except when recovering from a seizure
When does sporting activity generally trigger seizures?
At the highest levels when athletes are pushed to their physical limits
