Understanding epilepsy: a hidden disability
At SPARKFLAME RADIO, we believe in shedding light on important health topics. This page is dedicated to epilepsy, a condition that affects millions. Join us in learning more and fostering a community of understanding and support.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a common brain disorder characterised by ongoing, repeated seizures. These seizures are sudden bursts of excessive electrical activity in the brain. They can manifest in various ways, from brief blank stares to full-body shaking. The causes can range from genetics or brain injury, to remaining completely unknown. It's crucial to understand that epilepsy is not a one-size-fits-all condition; its impact varies significantly from person to person.
Reaching everyone
This page is for everyone. Whether you live with epilepsy, are a family member, a friend, or simply a listener of SPARKFLAME RADIO, we want to inform and educate you. Understanding epilepsy helps break down barriers and promotes a more inclusive society. We believe that knowledge is the first step towards empathy and support for those facing this condition daily.
Challenging misconceptions
SPARKFLAME RADIO aims to highlight that epilepsy is often a hidden disability. Many individuals with epilepsy face challenges because their condition isn't visibly apparent, leading to misunderstandings or disbelief from others. We want to challenge the notion that "you haven't got anything wrong with yourself" and promote the understanding that a hidden disability is just as impactful as any other. Our unique perspective is to give a voice to these experiences.
Fostering empathy and support
Our ultimate goal is for every visitor to leave this page with a deeper understanding of what people with epilepsy experience every day. By shining a light on this hidden disability, we hope to foster a community where empathy thrives, and support is readily available. Let's work together to create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and understood.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition that affects your brain and causes seizures (sometimes called fits). It cannot currently be cured, but treatment can often help manage it.
Comprehensive Overview
Mitigating Epilepsy Risks (SUDEP Action Charity Website, PDF only, 4.79MB)
Symptoms of Epilepsy
The primary manifestation of epilepsy is the occurrence of seizures.
Seizure symptoms may encompass:
muscle rigidity or flaccidity
sudden loss of consciousness resulting in a fall
involuntary jerking or twitching movements
involuntary urination
temporary loss of awareness of surroundings, characterized by a vacant stare and inability to respond appropriately
unusual sensory experiences, including atypical smells, numbness, tingling, visual disturbances, or sudden feelings of fear
atypical behaviors, such as fidgeting or wandering without awareness
A seizure typically lasts a few seconds to minutes and resolves spontaneously.
Individuals may retain awareness of the seizure and recall it afterward, or they may not.
Epilepsy symptoms frequently emerge in young children and individuals over the age of 50, although they can manifest at any age.
It is important to distinguish between epileptic seizures and febrile seizures, which may occur in children during episodes of elevated body temperature.
Guidance on Responding to Seizures
Dial 999 if:
You suspect an individual is experiencing a seizure and:
it is their first seizure
it exceeds their typical duration, or lasts longer than 5 minutes if their seizure history is unknown
they do not recover as anticipated, or experience another seizure without recovery in between
they have had three or more seizures within a 24-hour period
It is not always necessary for individuals with epilepsy to be hospitalized following a seizure.
Typically, they possess a care plan detailing appropriate responses, including the administration of emergency medication and guidelines for contacting emergency services. If you are familiar with their care plan and have received training, you may assist accordingly.
Seek an urgent appointment with a general practitioner or contact NHS 111 if:
you suspect you or your child may have experienced a first seizure without subsequent hospitalization
you have had a seizure after a prolonged period without any
For children under 5 years, it is advisable to call 111 or seek assistance through the 111 online service.
Diagnosis of Epilepsy
Following a seizure, it is crucial to consult a specialist physician who will evaluate the underlying causes and determine the potential for epilepsy.
The physician will inquire about the events preceding, during, and following the seizure. If a witness was present, their account may be beneficial during the consultation.
Potential diagnostic tests may include:
an electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess electrical activity in the brain
an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate cardiac function
imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans
blood analyses
genetic assessments
The occurrence of a seizure does not necessarily indicate a diagnosis of epilepsy, as seizures may arise from various etiologies. A diagnosis of epilepsy is typically made if an individual has experienced more than one seizure or if diagnostic tests indicate a heightened risk for future seizures.
Types of Epileptic Seizures
Epileptic seizures can be categorized into various types, each affecting individuals differently.
One may experience a singular type of seizure or multiple types. Continuous monitoring of symptoms and test results by a specialist may be necessary to accurately identify the specific type.
The principal types of epileptic seizures include:
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