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Epilepsy
Home care with
epilepsy varies with the frequency and type of seizures. It is important to
take anticonvulsant medication regularly to prevent seizures.
All first time seizures should have an
urgent evaluation to look for the cause.
When a seizure occurs, an observer can use
common sense to prevent injuries.
- Cushion the person's
head.
- Loosen any tight
neckwear.
- Turn the person on
his or her side.
- Do not hold the
person down or restrain the person.
- Do not place anything
in the mouth or try to pry the teeth apart. The person is not in danger of
swallowing his or her tongue.
- Observe seizure
characteristics-length, type of movements, direction of head or eye turning.
These characteristics may help the doctor diagnose the type of seizure.
- The person will
usually have confusion after the seizure for 20 to 30 minutes.
Medical Treatment
- Drug therapy with
anticonvulsants is the mainstay.
- Choice of drug
depends on several factors including the frequency and severity of the
seizures as well as the person's age, overall health, and medical history.
- An accurate diagnosis
of the type of epilepsy is critical for choosing the best treatment.
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First Aid Case List -
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