Epilepsy

Minor Epilepsy

This is a condition which results from a tendency towards brief disruptions in the normal electrical activity of the brain. Epileptic fits may vary from momentary inattention without loss of consciouness(Minor Epilepsy) to muscular spasm and convulsions(Major Epilepsy). Minor epilepsy may start in the childhood and may persist into adulthood. It can pass unnoticed because the casualty often appears only to be daydreaming.

SYMPTOMS - Casualty may appear to be in a daydream and be staring ahead blanky. - Casualty might start behavig strangely; these automatisms include chewing or smacking lips, saying odd things or fiddling with clothing. - Casualty may have lost memory. AIM Protect the casualty while consciouness is impaired.

TREATMENT 1. Protect the casualty from any dangers such as busy roads. Keep other people away from him. Talk to him quietly. 2. Stay with him until you are certain that he has recovered and can get home. 3. Advise the casualty to see doctor.

Major Epilepsy

Most major epileptic attacks come on enexpectedly. However, sometimes a person experiences an aura which serves as a warning that something more severe is about to happen. The aura may differ; e.g. a strange feeling in the body or particular smell or taste. During an aura, a person's normal mood may be altered, although this will not last long.

SYMPTOMS During the Fit - Casualty suddenly loses consciouness and falls to the ground, sometimes letting out a strange cry. - The casualty becomes rigid for a few seconds and breathing may cease. Mouth and lips will turn blue(cyanosis) and there will be congestion about the face and neck. - The muscles then relax and begin convulsive or jerking movements. These convulsions may be quite vigorous. - During this stage the breathing may be difficult or noisy through the cllenched jaw; froth may appear around the mouth- it may be bloodstained if lips or tongue have been bitten; and there may be loss of control of the bladder and occasionally the bowel. - Finnaly, the muscles will relax although the casualty will remain unconscious for a few minutes or more. After the Fit - Usually no more than five minutes later, breathing will return to normal and the casualty will regain consciousness but may be dazed and confused and act strangely. This can last from several minutes to an hour and the person may want to rest quietly. AIM Protect the casualty from injury during the fit and provide care once he has regained consciousness.

TREATMENT 1.If the casualty is falling, try to support him or ease his fall and lay him down gently, in a safe place possible. 2. Clear a space around him and unless you want someone to help, ask all bystanders to leave. If possible, carefully loosen clothing around his neck and place something soft under his head. DO NOT move or lift the casualty unless in danger DO NOT forcibly restrain him. DO NOT put anything in his mouth or try to open it DO NOT try to wake the casualty 3. When the convulsions cease, place the casualty in Recovery Position to aid his breathing. 4. When the attacks is over, stay with the casualty until you are certain recovery is complete. DO NOT give the casualty anything to drink unless you are sure of full alertness 5. Even if he makes a full, quick recovery, advice him to inform his doctor about the latest attack DO NOT send for an ambulance unless the casualty has several fits, has been injured during the fit or takes longer than 15 minutes to regain consciousness. If he has an epilepsy card, it may tell you how long he normally takes to wake up.