On March 26th, there are thousands if not more coming together to support, and fundraise for those that have epilepsy on Purple Day. Created in 2008 courtesy of Cassidy Megan an epileptic who aims to assure those with epilepsy that they are not alone, they are cared for and that support is on the horizon, Purple Day is a global event.
Named after lavender, the officially recognised flower of epilepsy, Purple Day raises much needed awareness that can bring people together to converse and make a difference. If you would like to make a difference you can volunteer, campaign or donate below: https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/get-involved
Understanding Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological condition which is synonymous with seizures or fits. These seizures can last anywhere from seconds to minutes and if it lasts any longer than five minutes it is a medical emergency.
Sometimes epilepsy is genetic or in other cases, it’s caused by severe head injuries which damage the brain. Epilepsy varies depending on the epileptic. Some have forewarnings which are called auras- a focal aware seizure where a feeling of warning overcomes the epileptic or as others may perceive it, a gut feeling ensued by uncontrollable shaking and the loss of awareness of surroundings which can result in staring into space and loss of focus.
Sensations can also be heightened with a tingling feeling consuming the body or unusual smells permeating surroundings, taste altering and an epileptics body may become stiff as the seizure or fit consumes them.
Epilepsy Triggers:
- Alcohol
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Avoidance of medication.
The Mental Effects Of Epilepsy:
Occasionally, the epileptic may not recall what happened and need time to recover full memory and bodily function. In many cases, epileptics can develop mental health conditions such as anxiety. The lingering effects of seizures can include embarrassment as during a seizure there is no control over their bodily functions and when and where a seizure/fit may happen. The fear of having a seizure that occurs at any time in any place without warning in some cases is a common cause of anxiety for epileptics.
How To Support An Epileptic Emergency:
If witnessing a loved one or even a complete stranger have a seizure/fit the aim is to ensure the epileptic is safe and to do so, stay with the person until the epileptic is fully alert. To take action you should do the following:
- Turn the person gently onto their side as they could choke on their tongue which could block their airway. Loosen clothing around the neck that prevents effortless breathing.
- Clear the surrounding area of anything hard or sharp that the epileptic could slam against.
- If possible put something soft underneath the person’s head, although do NOT confine the person by holding them down.
- Time the seizure as a seizure any longer than 5 minutes is a medical emergency and as such, call 999.
How To React After Witnessing A Seizure:
Witnessing a seizure can be a terrifying experience but to help you must remain calm. The epileptic may be confused and unable to communicate immediately after a seizure and as such speak calmly using simple terminology until they are fully aware of their surroundings.
Patience is vital as the person may repeat the same sentence or question and become emotionally distressed, as such a comforting demeanour is welcomed. The person should be alerted as to what happened once they have ‘come around’ so to say.
What To Avoid:
It is essential that during a seizure the epileptic is safe from harm and as such there are many things to be aware of that could unintentionally harm the individual. To do your best recall the following:
- Avoid containing the epileptics movements to ensure there’s no injury to yourself or the individual.
- Avoid placing anything in the person’s mouth including your fingers as this could lead to jaw injuries.
- Avoid providing mouth-to-mouth as the epileptic is likely to breathe after a brief rest.
- Avoid offering food or water until reassured that the individual is fully alert.
Resources To Educate Yourself On Epilepsy:
- Epilepsy Action- https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/about?gclid=CjwKCAjwxOCRBhA8EiwA0X8hi_tGOk3f7SKGZCjK5R6Y2_Nuxf_rxsSMOfFKCqNcqyRpEonSsbyXfhoC_TgQAvD_BwE
- Epilepsy Society- https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/get-involved/purpleday/what-purple-day
- Epilepsy Research UK- https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/get-involved/purpleday/what-purple-day
Research Required:
According to Epilepsy Research UK, epilepsy receives a staggeringly low investment in neurological research although it’s a common condition with approximately 600,000 in the UK alone suffering with epilepsy:
“There are a staggering 100,000 emergency admissions due to epilepsy each year. Research into epilepsy receives only 7% of neurological research funding and just 0.3% of the £4.8 billion total spent on health-related research in the UK.”
Change is needed and for that to happen the inequality surrounding research funding within epilepsy needs to progress.