Is Epilepsy Psychological?

That is just a myth! Epilepsy is not a psychological disease, but a neurological one, like migraines. Epilepsy is diagnosed in people who suffer from repetitive or chronic convulsions (or seizures) that cannot be linked to another condition or disease.

By now, you are probably wondering what convulsions or seizures are. Let us begin by explaining that all our movements and thoughts originate in our brain, by way of electrical impulses. Convulsions occur when the brain releases abnormal electrical impulses. They result in an alteration of conscience. thought. movement and sensation. They manifest themselves in the form of various symptoms and produce abnormal electroencephalogram ( EEG) readings (an electroencephalogram is a device used to track brain impulses).

Convulsions can be caused by many factors such as a serious head injury, a congenital mal-formation, a brain tumor untreated diabetes, meningitis dementia, or drug or alcohol withdrawal, to only name a few Epilepsy is diagnosed in cases where convulsions cannot be explained by another underlying condition.

Although people of any age can have epilepsy, it is usually diagnosed in young people of between 5 and 20 years of age. Epilepsy affects approximately 1 in 250 persons. while the cause of epilepsy is unknown, certain factors are known to trigger epileptic seizures. Among these are other medical conditions, or an intense stimulation of sight, hearing, or touch. For example, flickering lights (stroboscopes) and loud music are known to bring on seizures and people suffering from epilepsy are usually advised to stay away from them.

"Grand mal" seizures are the most common. They are characterized by a loss of consciousness, a collapse to the ground and involuntary generalized contractions of the body's muscles. Here is what you should do if you witness someone having an epileptic seizure:

Clear the area surrounding the person of any objects. furniture, or obstacles that may harm the person during the seizure. If possible, gently roll the person onto one side and place a cushion or some clothes under the person's head to protect it.

Look for information to know if this is a first time episode. A medical bracelet usually identifies known epileptics.

Do not try to restrain the person or to put something in his/her mouth. The tongue cannot be "swallowed". Many people stop breathing during a seizure and their face may turn blue

However, the seizure should not last more than a minute or two, after which time normal breathing should return.

Should the seizure last longer, or should multiple seizures occur, seek medical assistance immediately. Medical assistance will also be necessary if recovery is slow, when there is no known epilepsy or if the patient is pregnant or injured.

In order to prevent the person from choking or swallowing mucus or vomit it is recommended that he/she be placed on his/her side during the seizure, as well as during the sleep period that usually follows.

Remember, although it might seem like a good thing to do, it is futile and dangerous to attempt mouth to mouth resuscitation during a "grand mal" seizure.

Drug therapies are usually prescribed for epilepsy sufferers. However, these therapies will only be effective if the medication is taken regularly, Those who are worried about forgetting to take their medication should speak to their pharmacist. He/she can help develop a schedule adapted to their everyday routine.