Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that expresses itself through seizures. It affects 0.6 per cent of Canadians, nearly 85% of those affected manifest symptoms before the age of 18.
Though in many cases epileptic seizures can be managed by anticonvulsant drugs, environmental and physical stressors such as flickering (strobe) lights, extreme heat/humidity, poor nutrition, illness, anxiety or lack of sleep may cause a seizure. Seizures can also occur in people who have no history of epilepsy due to head/brain injury, brain infection, high fever, stroke or a drug overdose.
It is important that a person suffering from a seizure receive compassionate bystander care that not only ensures they are physically safe during and after the seizure but they are given proper emotional support.
A typical seizure has two phases; a tonic phase marked by the sudden loss of consciousness, and the clonic phase; marked by convulsions, noisy breathing, and frothy saliva. Some people with epilepsy are able to predict the onset of a seizure and may ask for help.
What to do if someone is having a seizure:
– If possible guide the person safely to the ground.
– Begin emergency scene management. Make sure the area is free of hazards. Clear any onlookers to help protect privacy.
– During the convulsion do not restrict the person’s movement. Gently guide them, if needed, to avoid injury.
– Carefully loosen tight clothing especially around the neck.
– Place something soft under the person’s head.
– Do not try to put anything in the mouth or between the teeth to hold the tongue.
– When the convulsion has subsided, check the person’s level of responsiveness and roll them into the recovery position. Wipe away any fluids from the mouth or nose.
– Check the person over to make sure he hasn’t injured himself during the seizure.
– Give ongoing care by monitoring breathing, keeping the person warm and allowing him to rest (he may need an hour of rest).
– Do not give liquids during or immediately after the seizure.
– If the person is unconscious for more than five minutes, or has another seizure within a few minutes of the first, call 911.
If this is the person’s first seizure or the cause of the seizure is unknown seek medical help.
For more information on St. John Ambulance training courses and volunteer opportunities or to contact your local branch, visit www.sja.ca.
