Understanding Epilepsy Awareness Month: What You Need to Know
Epilepsy Awareness Month occurs annually in November to spread awareness of epilepsy, a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This month aims to educate individuals about the condition, break stigmas and stereotypes, and highlight the importance of seizure first aid. Here is what you need to know about Epilepsy Awareness Month and the impact it has.
Epilepsy Facts and Insights
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by abnormal brain activity that results in seizures. About 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, and one in 26 Americans will develop epilepsy in their lifetime. However, epilepsy diagnoses do not necessarily mean frequent seizures; some individuals experience only one seizure in their life.
Seizure triggers vary, including lack of sleep, stress, alcohol and drug use, and hormonal changes. Epilepsy affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. In children, epilepsy is commonly caused by brain injuries, congenital defects, or infections. Adults can have epilepsy caused by brain tumors, strokes, or head injuries.
Living with epilepsy can be challenging. Due to the unpredictable nature of seizures, individuals with epilepsy may face discrimination and social stigmatization, which can result in unemployment and decreased quality of life.
Epilepsy Awareness Month Goals
One of the primary objectives of epilepsy awareness month is to educate the public on epilepsy and break down stereotypes and stigmas, which can cause discrimination and affect a person’s daily life. People with epilepsy should be treated with respect and understanding, just as people with other medical conditions.
Another crucial goal of epilepsy awareness month is to spread the word about seizure first aid. Understanding how to provide first aid can help minimize damage and complications from a seizure and, in some cases, even save someone’s life.
Providing Seizure First Aid
If you witness someone having a seizure, remain calm and take the following steps, which are essential in providing proper first aid:
– Time the seizure (if possible)
– Pay attention to where the person is and remove any harmful objects nearby
– Turn the person on their side to prevent suffocation—that way secretions and vomit can be spat out easily from their mouth
– Place something soft beneath the person’s head, like clothing, a pillow, or a soft cushion
– Do not restrain the person or force anything into their mouth
– Stay with the person until their seizure ends, and they fully regain consciousness
– After the seizure, help the person to rest and recover
Conclusion
Epilepsy Awareness Month is a crucial time to break down stigmas and stereotypes related to epilepsy while spreading awareness about seizure first aid that can help save a person’s life. Understanding and providing support to people with epilepsy can help eliminate the challenges, discrimination, and social barriers they may face in day-to-day life. So let’s increase our knowledge of epilepsy, support inclusive attitudes, and be prepared to assist in case of a seizure emergency.
