Epilepsy...Seizures...Fits...

Epilepsy – Abnormal and uncontrollable surge of electrical activities in the brain

Minor Epilepsy

How to recognize?

o Sudden “switching off”/in daydream.
o Slight twitching movements of lips, eyelids or head.
o Strange “automatic” movements – lip smacking, chewing, making odd noises, fiddling with clothing.
o On recovery casualty may have lose track of what he/she was doing.

How to manage?

o Help casualty sit down.
o Remove possible sources of harm.
o Talk calmly and reassuringly.
o Do not pester with questions.
o Stay with casualty until he/she has recovered.
o Advise to see doctor.

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Major Epilepsy

How to recognize?

· Some casualty may experience brief period of “aura” – a strange feeling, a particular taste or smell.
· Sudden loss of consciousness, often letting out a cry.
· Observe the phases of epilepsy

After the Fit (<5mins)

· Muscles relax.
· Breathing becomes normal.
· Recovers consciousness.
· Feel dazed and confused.
· Behave strangely – “automatism”.
· May be followed by deep sleep.

How to manage?

· Support falling casualty.
· Clear space around.
· Loosen clothing around neck.
· Place something soft under neck.
· When convulsions cease, place in recovery position.
· Stay with casualty until completely recovered.
· DO NOT lift or move casualty unless in immediate danger.
· DO NOT use force to restrain him/her or put anything into mouth.
· Note time and duration of fit.
· If unconscious for more than 10 minutes, call for ambulance.
· If casualty unaware of his/her condition, advise to see doctor.

Here's a video by Doctor Hillary explaining on Epilepsy for your further understanding.. =)