UNDERSTANDING EPILEPSY - A FIRST STEP

by Epilepsy Association of Scotland

Prevalence

People all over the world, and of all ages, can have epilepsy. Both men and women can have epilepsy. Many people with epilepsy hold down jobs. If you have epilepsy you can get a lot of help.

If you have epilepsy it means that you will occasionally have a fit, but most of the time you will feel fine.

Fits

A fit happens because the brain has not functioned normally. Some people call fits "turns", "seizures", or "attacks." There are a lot of different kinds of fits. A fit may make your body move a lot. It might give you funny feelings in the stomach or face. It might make you fall over. Maybe you are aware of what is happening when you have a fit, but you cannot stop it. Usually a fit does not last very long, and is unlikely to hurt you.

Precautions

Some people can sense when they are going to have a fit. They sit or lie down in a safe place until the fit is over. Other people do not, but people around them may know, and can often help.

Help

You can get help from other people and from your doctor. Your doctor may also ask other people to help you. Your doctor will give you the best kind of pills, and will tell you to take your pills every day. Your doctor may also give you regular blood tests.

You can also help yourself. Eat good meals every day. Make sure you have a good sleep at night. Take your pills every day. Keep busy and active. It is best not to drink wine, beer, or spirits.