Epilepsy

When the normal function of the brain is disrupted by injury, disease, fever or infection, the electrical activity of the brain becomes irregular. This irregularity can cause a loss of body control, known as a seizure.

Epilepsy is usually controlled with medication, although some people with epilepsy can have seizures from time to time.

Seizures range from mild blackouts, to sudden uncontrolled muscular contractions, lasting for several minutes.

Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of epilepsy will vary according to the types of seizure they are having. They may include:

  • Noisy breathing or holding their breath 
  • Body stiffness and arched back 
  • Eyes staring or rolled Disorientation or confusion

First Aid Management

  • Observe DRABCD 
  • Protect the casualty from injury 
  • Monitor the airway 
  • Be reassuring and comforting 
  • Stay with the casualty until they are fully conscious and aware of their surroundings

Advanced Management

If the seizure lasts for longer than a few minutes, the casualty has repeated seizures, the casualty is injured as a result of the seizure, they are pregnant or have a medical condition, you must call an ambulance.

What should you do?

We all respond to emergencies in different ways.

Whether trained or untrained, some of us are afraid we will do the wrong thing and make the situation worse.

If you are unsure about what to do, call for an ambulance.

The worst thing to do is to do nothing.


 

 

Asthma

 

Allergic Reactions

 

Anaphylaxis

 

Burns and Scalds

 

Calling for Help

 

Choking

 

Diabetes

 

DRABCD

 

Emergency Action Plan

Epilepsy

 

External Bleeding

 

First Aid Kits

 

Fish Stings

 

Fractures

 

Function of the blood

 

Heat Cramps

 

Heat Exhaustion

 

Heat Stroke

 

Internal Bleeding

 

Poisons

 

Prevent Emergencies

 

Severe Reaction

 

Shock

 

Snake Bites

 

Soft Tissue Injuries


 

 

Copyright 2009 National First Aid Training Institute | Sunshine Coast First Aid Training | Site Design: Kook Multimedia | Contact Us | Site Map