What is epilepsy

Some people have no clue what epilepsy is, in fact throughout history many myths have developed about it. What do you say we take a little quiz and see how much you know about it?

True or False: Epilepsy means a person is brain damaged or retarded and is different from a seizure disorder.

If you answered false you are correct the diagnosis of epilepsy is given to those who have a seizure disorder meaning those who have had 2 or more seizures. Most people with epilepsy can live normal lives.

True or False: Epilepsy is contagious.

The answer is completely false this has been known since the early 19th century however it is still one myth that continues to be told.

True or False: Woman who have epilepsy can have babies.

This is true it was once believed that woman who had epilepsy should be sterilized, some were not allowed to marry or attend regular schools. Truth be told 90% of babies born to women with epilepsy are healthy. However, a woman should be informed and talk to her doctor about trying to get pregnant so that they can discuss how to have a healthy pregnancy.

True or False: A person could swallow their tongue during a seizure so you should put a spoon or another object in their mouth.

Now this is one statement I hear all the time when I talk about my kids having seizures, the answer is FALSE! It is impossible for a person to swallow their tongue and really putting something in their mouth can actually be more harmful than good. The object can cause a chipped tooth, punctured gum, or worse break their jaw. If you see someone having a seizure and really want to help roll them on their side and make sure they are in a place that is safe try and grab some pillows for their head to keep from being injured.

True or False: You should never restrain a person who is having a seizure.

Did you answer True? If so good job, NEVER restrain a person having a seizure you just need to let the seizure run its course, remember though follow the advice I gave in the previous answer, roll them on their side and protect from head injury.

So how well did you do? There are many more myths about epilepsy but these are the ones I hear the most. The truth is epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can effect anyone at any age. There can be many causes as to why a person has epilepsy however most of the time the cause is unknown. Believe me as a parent an unknown cause can be very very frustrating.

Please if you don't know much about epilepsy research and learn, it is very likely someone you know may have epilepsy.

Tomorrow I will educate you one all the different types of seizures there are.