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Support for epileptic patients - Newsroom - 25-06-2014
Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu has encouraged those living with people with epilepsy to support them optimally.
“Let us show love and support to people with epilepsy and do away with discrimination as a result of any form of illness or condition,†MEC Mahlangu said on Tuesday as National Epilepsy Week came to an end.
National Epilepsy Week is observed annually and this year, it was celebrated from 16 – 22 June. The main aim of National Epilepsy Week is to raise awareness about epilepsy to dispel the myths, social stigmas and discrimination attached to the condition.
During the week 16 - 24 June 2014, health promoters in and around Gauteng embarked on a campaign to raise awareness about epilepsy.
Fifty million living with epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by unusual electrical activity in the brain. Even though it is the most common neurological condition in the world, it is still widely misunderstood.
Epilepsy affects 1 out of 100 people in South Africa, with 50 million people living with epilepsy globally. In Gauteng, a total of 36 209 patients are on treatment in the province for this illness.
In addition to receiving medication from provincial health facilities, patients are also supported with information on how to manage the illness as well as highlighting the importance of honouring appointments for reviews.
What triggers seizures?
Some of the triggers that may bring on a seizure include forgotten or incorrect medication, fever, lack of sleep, stress and excitement, boredom, alcohol and drugs, photosensitivity (flickering lights e.g. a TV screen, rare and well controlled), startle response, illness, hormonal changes, heat and humidity.
In more than 50% of cases, the underlying cause of the epilepsy is unknown. In other cases, underlying causes may be as a result from a head injury, birth injury due to lack of oxygen during birth, infections like meningitis and encephalitis, strokes, tumours, alcohol and drug abuse and aging.
How to manage seizures
Sharing tips on how to manage seizures, MEC Mahlangu said: “Place the patient in a recovery position.
“Do not place anything like spoon or spatula in the mouth. Do not try to open the patient’s mouth. Maintain an open air passage, assist respiration and give oxygen if available and monitor vital signs every 15 minutes if possible.†– SAnews.gov.za