epilepsy

Question 1

what is epilepsy?

Answer 1

the increased tendency to have seizures due to abnormal brain activity.

Question 2

what causes it?

Answer 2

cause unknown. things can increase your risk: severe head trauma, stroke, brain tumour, drug/ alcohol abuse, brain infection, lack of oxygen during birth

Question 3

is it genetic?

Answer 3

no. slight increased risk if sibling has it.

Question 4

what is a seizure?

Answer 4

period of abnormal brain activity leading to sx, such as shaking, biting of the tongue, incontinence, stiffness and sometimes loss of attention/awareness, strange sensations, collapse.

Question 5

treatment?

Answer 5

no cure but drugs to control seizure recurrence, such as sodium valproate, carbamazepine and lamotrigine.
stop drinking/alcohol/drugs, get enough sleep, regular meals, avoid stress. support and counselling
best to keep a trigger diary so they can avoid their triggers if possible: menstrual cycle, strong emotion, lack of sleep, hyperventilation, flashing lights, febrile illness

Question 6

what will be the effect on their life?

Answer 6

most have normal lives and for some it goes away completely
female: valporate is teratogenic, carbamazepine reacts with OCT. lamotrigine safest in pregnancy.
inform DVLA- can’t drive until a year seizure free, another 6 months every time a dose is changed
can’t drive HGV until 10yrs seizure free off meds
can’t be a pilot, diver or heights
sport: inform lifeguard/ coach, where protective gear
do not bath alone

Question 7

support?

Answer 7

epilepsy action

Question 8

what is status epilepticus and what to do?

Answer 8

seizure >5mins. ring ambulance and rub medazolam into gums.

Question 9

what to do when they are having a seizure?

Answer 9

clear area, cushion head, loosen tie/collar, time it and if >5mins ring ambulance, put in recovery position afterwards