Epilepsy Awareness Month: Recognizing Epilepsy Emergencies and Getting the Right Care
November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, understanding, and support for the millions affected by epilepsy.
Established by the Epilepsy Foundation, this month aims to break the stigma around epilepsy, share knowledge, and provide support to those who live with this condition.
Epilepsy affects many families, friends, and communities across the U.S., and the more we know, the better we can help.
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring, unprovoked seizures. Seizures occur when abnormal electrical activity in the brain disrupts normal functioning, leading to symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
These seizures can look very different from person to person; some may involve brief moments of confusion, while others may cause full-body convulsions and loss of consciousness.
This disorder impacts people of all ages. According to the CDC, approximately 2.9 million adults in the U.S. (or about 1% of the adult population) have active epilepsy, while around 456,000 children aged 17 and younger also live with active epilepsy.
Epilepsy can be complex and unpredictable, which is why understanding what to do during an epilepsy emergency is so important.
What Is an Epilepsy Emergency?
An epilepsy emergency can occur when a seizure lasts too long or when one seizure quickly follows another without allowing the person time to recover.
One of the most critical types of epilepsy emergencies is status epilepticus, defined as a seizure lasting longer than five minutes or when a person experiences repeated seizures without regaining consciousness. This situation is life-threatening and requires immediate medical assistance.
How to Recognize an Epilepsy Emergency
Being able to recognize the signs of an epilepsy emergency can make a crucial difference in someone’s life. Here’s what to look for:
- A seizure that lasts more than five minutes.
- Repeated seizures without regaining full consciousness in between.
- Breathing difficulties, especially if the person turns blue.
- Any injury that occurred during the seizure, such as head trauma.
- Seizure activity that is unusual or much longer than usual for the individual.
If you notice these signs, you must call for help immediately. Knowing what to do in the meantime can also help ensure the person’s safety.
What to Do in an Epilepsy Emergency
If you’re with someone experiencing an epilepsy emergency, follow these steps:
- Stay Calm and Call for Help: Dial 911 or bring the individual to the nearest ER if a seizure lasts more than five minutes or if another seizure follows shortly after.
- Keep the Person Safe: Gently guide them to the floor, cushion their head, and clear away any sharp or dangerous objects nearby.
- Position Them on Their Side: This helps keep the airway open and prevents choking, especially if there is any saliva or vomit.
- Time of the Seizure: Note when the seizure started and any patterns or symptoms to relay to the medical team.
- Stay With Them: Reassure them, and do not attempt to hold them down or put anything in their mouth, as this can cause more harm.
Rapid Care ER Is Your Ally in an Epilepsy Emergency
During an epilepsy emergency, you want care that’s not only fast but also comprehensive. At Rapid Care ER, we prioritize your safety and comfort by providing world-class facilities and the highest level of care when every second counts.
Our ER is staffed with experienced doctors and nurses trained to handle epilepsy emergencies with precision and empathy. With Rapid Care ER, you can expect:
- Personalized Care: Our team takes the time to understand each patient’s unique situation and provides care tailored to their needs.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: We have the latest technology to diagnose and treat emergencies accurately so you receive the best care.
- Minimal Waiting Times: Unlike other facilities, we are dedicated to getting you the help you need without delays.
- Insurance Support: We work with all major insurance companies, ensuring you have access to necessary care without financial stress.
- Whether a child, adult, or elderly family member is experiencing an emergency, Rapid Care ER can provide the highest-quality treatment when it matters most.
Epilepsy emergencies are frightening, but with quick action and professional support, many potential complications can be minimized.
Join Us in Supporting Epilepsy Awareness Month
Throughout Epilepsy Awareness Month, let’s work together to spread knowledge, break down the stigmas surrounding the condition, and make an impactful difference in the lives of those affected by epilepsy, ensuring they receive compassionate and effective care when needed.
At Rapid Care ER, we’re here for you and your loved ones, always ready to provide the emergency support you need with care and dedication.