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Epilepsy Facts

Epilepsy Facts
Epilepsy is a neurological disease which results in seizures in those affected. Seizures can be very brief to extended periods of time that can result in broken bones and other injuries when vigorous. The cause or trigger is usually unknown, although some are more prone to seizures under certain circumstances. The reason for the onset of epilepsy can vary from brain tumors, brain injuries, stroke, birth defects, or even infections. Some people are believed to develop epilepsy due to genetic mutations. In roughly 70% of cases, it is possible to control or prevent seizures through medication, while others require surgery, diet changes, or other alternative measures. Epilepsy is not necessarily life-long, as some cases improve and do not experience them after a time.
Interesting Epilepsy Facts:
Epilepsy can affect people of all ages, and is the 4th most common neurological disorder, or 'seizure disorder'.
Epilepsy is most well-known because of the seizures it causes, but it can cause other health issues as well.
In many cases it is the public perception of epilepsy that causes more challenges to those affected than the disorder itself.
Epilepsy is considered chronic, and those with the disorder often experience other neurological disorders as well.
The human brain is the source of an individual's epilepsy. The electrical events that cause the seizures occur in the brain.
In some cases seizures can occur from extremely low blood sugar, or alcohol withdrawal in someone who is an alcoholic. These seizures are usually part of a reversible medical condition and do not result in chronic epilepsy.
One of the great myths of epilepsy is that someone having a seizure will swallow their tongue. This is not possible. It is never advisable to stick something in someone's mouth when they are having a seizure as this can result in broken teeth or even their jaw.
When someone has a seizure the best thing to do is roll them on their side, protect their head from injury by supporting it, and ensure they are breathing.
Epilepsy can begin at any age, from childhood to those over the age of 65.
Epilepsy is not a contagious disorder.
Once diagnosed with epilepsy some people are no longer able to drive or perform certain tasks because it may put their safety or others' safety at risk if they have a seizure.
Although there is medication to help reduce the incidence of seizures, it is not a curable disorder. Sometimes it resolves but not due to a cure.
Despite medication and other treatments, there are an estimated 1 million people in the U.S. that suffer from uncontrolled epilepsy.
Although epilepsy is not commonly fatal, some people do die from the disorder. In many cases it is the result of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy).
It is estimated that one in every one thousand people with epilepsy die from the disorder each year.
It is also possible to die from prolonged seizures, referred to as status epilepticus.
Following a seizure, the person may be disoriented or have trouble resuming their previous activity. It can take time for the body and mind to recover.


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