This November, you can make a difference in the life of someone living with epilepsy by participating in epilepsy awareness month!
Epilepsy is one of the oldest-known medical conditions, but many people still don't understand what it is, how many people it affects, or how they can help. During Epilepsy Awareness Month, The Epilepsy Foundation and other advocates work together to raise awareness on the challenges that people with epilepsy may face and support those living with epilepsy.
According to the CDC, epilepsy, or seizure disorder, is a medical condition where people have seizures. A seizure is a short change in brain activity. These seizures can last seconds or minutes and can happen at any time, to anyone, anywhere. This unpredictability can create unique challenges for those living with epilepsy.
Epilepsy is one of the most common conditions that affect the brain.
The Epilepsy Foundation says that:
Epilepsy can happen to anyone, no matter how old they are. In fact, according to the Epilepsy Society, most people are diagnosed with epilepsy when they're still under 20 years old.
There is no cure for epilepsy currently. However, the CDC has tips for people to help manage their seizures, including:
It's important to spread epilepsy awareness so people can know how to support someone with seizures and when to get help from a doctor.
The National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke say that over 60% of people with epilepsy have focal seizures, meaning they don't shake and jerk like in more recognizable seizures.
According to the Epilepsy Foundation, there are many types of seizures like absence seizures, where people stare off into space for a bit, febrile seizures that happen because of high fevers, and many more.
Epilepsy Awareness Month helps by sharing this information and raising awareness on the many types of seizures.
It can be scary to see someone having a seizure. But knowing what to do can make a big difference.
Typically, seizures don’t require emergency medical attention. But certain conditions or situations can be more serious and require medical attention.
According to the CDC, you should only call 911 in the following cases:
Of course, if you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you feel the person is in any danger.
According to the Epilepsy Foundation,
During this epilepsy awareness month, you can help spread education and hope just by sharing information. Join the fight to find a cure and raise awareness this epilepsy awareness month!
Learn more about how you can make a difference here!
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