Do you know anyone with epilepsy? November is Epilepsy Awareness Month and we want to keep breaking the stigma around the illness. By spreading knowledge and building empathy, we’re creating a more supportive Jamaica for those living with epilepsy.
Often called ‘fits’, epilepsy is a brain condition that causes recurrent seizures. With over 40 types, no two are exactly alike, and symptoms vary widely.
Recognising a Seizure
During a seizure, a person may feel confused, stare blankly, smack their lips, fidget or have uncontrolled jerky movements. Some might even experience a unique taste or sensation just before a seizure. These symptoms can seem a bit scary, but understanding them helps everyone feel more at ease.
How to Respond
Knowing how to respond to a seizure can make all the difference. Here are a few simple steps to remember:
- Stay calm and help ease the person to the floor if they’re not already sitting.
- Turn them on their side to help keep the airway clear.
- Protect their head by placing something soft under it and let the seizure run its course.
- Avoid putting anything in their mouth as this is not necessary.
- Stay close to them. Most seizures last only a minute or two.
Managing Epilepsy
For those living with epilepsy, in addition to Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), there are several ways to help manage seizures:
- Lifestyle adjustments: A healthy routine, including rest, proper diet and stress management, are key.
- Psychological counseling: This form of therapy can aid greatly in managing one’s mental health and controlling seizures.
- Surgery: In rare cases, when medication isn’t effective, surgery may address the brain area where seizures begin.
Though we can’t always prevent epilepsy, we may help reduce its risk by taking appropriate action and offering support as necessary.
The NHFCard: Supporting Epilepsy Care in Jamaica
Those living with epilepsy can live full, active lives with the right support, and the NHF is here to help. With the NHFCard, epilepsy patients have greater access to medications
