1. { Epilepsy FAQS

2.  Normal pattern of brain activity is disrupted and this causes strange sensations, emotions, spasms, convulsions, and sometimes loss of consciousness = seizure  Anything such as illness, brain damage, injury, certain disabilities, or abnormal brain development can lead to a seizure What is it?

3. Facts Anyone can develop epilepsy Some causes are idiopathic Nearly 3 million Americans have epilepsy Having 1 seizures does not mean someone has epilepsy There is currently no cure but about 70% of epilepsy can be treated

4.  Illness including meningitis & encephalitis  Brain malformation during development in the womb  Trauma to the brain (before, during, or after birth)  Brain tumors  Chemical imbalances in the brain  Strokes  Chromosome disorders  Some cases are idiopathic  Genetic link – can be a family history Causes

5.  Vary in severity, frequency, duration and appearance  Some people may be able to anticipate a seizure  People may have triggers  Refer to video on Canvas for what to do for someone during a seizure  Alert 911 if seizure lasts more than 5 minutes  RT – usually have documentation that someone has a seizure disorder and inquire about the typical symptoms of the seizure Understanding Seizures

6.  Medications  Side effects of medications include tiredness, mood or behavioral changes  Implantation of vagal nerve stimulator  Surgery to remove affected part of the brain Treatment Dilantin, Depakote, Tegretol, Neurontin, Topamax, and many others.

7.  Triggers can be fever or overtiredness  Supervise in the bathtub, shower, pool and while riding bikes  Do not allow children to lock doors  Wear a helmet when engaged in certain activities  Stay hydrated  Learning disabilities & behavior problems can be present in problems can be present in children children Tips for Children