1. Essentials of Epilepsy
Chris Koutsogeorgas EDTE 731

2. What is Epilepsy? Epilepsy is a disorder in which nerve cells of the
brain from time to time release abnormal electrical
impulses. These cause a temporary malfunction of
the other nerve cells of the brain, resulting in
alteration of, or complete loss of consciousness.

3. What Causes Epilepsy? Acquired, congenital, or hereditary diseases
Birth or pre-birth trauma
Brain injuries
Abnormal metabolism
Chemical imbalance
Degenerative diseases affecting the brain
Poisoning (especially lead)
Brain tumors
Infections such as meningitis and encephalitis
Scar formation in the brain from injury or operation
Alterations in blood sugar

4. Common Myths About Epilepsy
Epilepsy can cause mental illness, mental retardation,
and cerebral palsy
Epilepsy is rarely treated successfully
People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives
Most people with epilepsy cannot work and collect
welfare checks
People with epilepsy lack intelligence
Epilepsy is very rare
Children with epilepsy need to attend special schools
All people with epilepsy have convulsions
People with epilepsy are possessed by the devil
People with epilepsy are no longer discriminated
against and made fun of in our society
(example)>

5. What Percentage of the Population Has Epilepsy?
1.75%
1.25%
.5%
98.25%
98%

6. First Aid for Seizures
1. Remove sharp corners and/or heavy objects. Place
a cushion or similar object under the person's head.
2. Do not try to restrain the person or put anything in
their mouth. It is medically impossible for a person to
swallow their tongue.
3. Leave the person alone until their muscles relax, and
then place them in the recovery position on their side.
4. Wait with them quietly and talk to them reassuringly.
5. Only call an ambulance if it is the person’s first
seizure, if the seizure lasts more than five minutes,
or if the person has subsequent seizures.