What You Should Know About Epilepsy -Continued

How can I help the patient while he is having a seizure? Place a soft object between his head and the floor/ground, and move sharp objects away from his head.  When convulsions stop, turn the patient on his side.

What should I do after the patient awakens? First, assure him that everything is all right.  Then help him stand upright and guide him to a place where can get needed rest. Most people are confused and sleepy after a seizure. Others recover quickly and continue what they were doing before the attack. 

Do all epileptic seizures include convulsions? No.  Some patients experience a moment of impaired awareness without even falling to the ground.   This is called a petit mal seizure (or absence seizure), which is usually brief with no lingering aftereffects.  Some people with epilepsy undergo prolonged petit mal  seizures, lasting several minutes.  In such a case, the patient may wonder around the room, tug at his clothing, or otherwise behave strangely. After the seizure, he may feel light-headed.

What is it like to live with epilepsy?  Understandably, many people with epilepsy contend with a nagging fear of when and where the next seizure will occur.  To avoid embarrassment, they may tend to avoid social situations. 

Next time: Conclusion of What You Should Know About Epilepsy

From the jw.org publications