Epilepsy
Recurrent seizures caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain.
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Overview
Epilepsy is neurological condition causing recurrent seizures episodes of unusual electrical activity in brain. Seizures vary enormously from brief absence stares lasting seconds to major convulsive seizures with loss of consciousness. Epilepsy is NOT one condition. Over 40 types exist. Around 1 in 100 UK people have epilepsy. Can start any age. Some have specific cause brain injury stroke infection others no identified cause. Around 70 percent achieve seizure control with medication but 30 percent have drug-resistant epilepsy requiring other treatments. Seizure triggers vary by person but often include missed medication lack of sleep stress illness flashing lights photosensitive epilepsy rare about 3 percent or alcohol. Not everyone loses consciousness. Focal seizures affect only part of brain can cause confusion strange sensations automatic behaviours. First aid for convulsive seizures protect head time seizure turn on side when convulsions stop stay until recovered. Call 999 if over 5 minutes happens in water or injured. People with epilepsy face driving restrictions employment barriers assumptions about capability.
Key Characteristics
- Recurrent seizures varied types presentations
- May lose consciousness or awareness
- Convulsions staring confusion unusual sensations
- Post-seizure fatigue confusion postictal
- Triggers missed meds lack sleep stress
- Some types involve automatisms repetitive movements
- Risk of injury during seizures
- Medication controls in 70 percent cases
What Helps
- Medication adherence essential for control
- Seizure action plan known by all
- First aid training for those around
- Trigger management sleep hygiene stress reduction
- Medical alert bracelet or card
- Risk assessment for activities swimming heights
- Rescue medication buccal midazolam when prescribed
- Do not restrain protect from injury
- Time seizures call 999 if over 5 minutes
- Regular neurology follow-ups specialist nurses
Note: Informational only. Consult professionals for individualised support.