Events World Diabetes Day 2023 November 14th is World Diabetes Day, a time to reflect and deepen our understanding of a nurse’s role in patients’ diabetic care. Review the types of diabetes, risk factors that increase the chance of diabetes, the...

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MPH, MSN, WHNP-BC
November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. Â
This blog will cover all things epilepsy and seizures.Â
A seizure is when someone is having an abnormal, sudden electric disturbance in the brain. Epilepsy is defined as having two or more seizures at least 24 hours apart with no known underlying cause. Â
As more research on brain health and neurology continues to increase, seizures and epilepsy have garnered more attention in nursing care and mainstream media. Â
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Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disorder that involves a history of at least two seizures. Epilepsy can be difficult to diagnose and manage since its presentation can vary greatly. Some people can have only two seizures in their life. Other people may have more frequent seizures, sometimes occurring hundreds of times a day. Epilepsy can occur at any time, can affect anyone of any age, and is seen equally in men and women. Â
Historically, epilepsy was seen as a health condition that only affected children, those who were already ill, or those who are elderly. Â
However, over 3 million adults and over 470,000 children live in America with epilepsy. Â
Now, with more evidence-based research, epilepsy is more known as a chronic health condition with several medication and management options and deserves adequate detection, assessment, and management.Â
Learning about epilepsy means learning about seizures. Â
A seizure is when, for whatever reason, there is abnormal electric activity in the brain. Â
Common signs and symptoms of seizures include:Â
It is important to note that every seizure is unique and that many people have different presentations of symptoms. That is one aspect of seizures that Epilepsy Awareness Month aims to bring recognition to and awareness. Â
For instance, someone could have involuntary movements of their legs for a few seconds while someone else could be unconscious for a few minutes with rapid arm movements. Â
If seizures are left undetected and untreated, permanent injury or death can occur. If seizures are left without proper management, there can be lifelong issues with personal safety, job retention, academic performance, relationships, and self-identity. Â
There are two main types of seizures – partial and generalized.
Partial seizures, also known as focal seizures, occur when there is abnormal brain activity in one part of someone’s brain. Â
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Generalized seizures involve all areas of the brain. There are six types of generalized seizures.Â
There is no single test to diagnose epilepsy, which makes obtaining an epilepsy diagnosis a lengthy journey for many. Â
Often, health care providers will do a full neurological exam, blood work, an electroencephalogram (EEG), and other imaging tests. Â
Unfortunately, there is no single known cause for seizures. A fever, brain tumor, nervous system infection, genetics, or head trauma can trigger a seizure, but there is still much research to be done to determine the exact causation for seizures.Â
Epilepsy can be managed with therapy, medication, or both.
It is important to note that there is no one single way to manage epilepsy. Â
Epilepsy management is something to be discussed with a health care provider and care team to determine the best course of action for someone’s needs and health goals.
Some evidence-based organizations that can provide you with the latest information and patient education tools on epilepsy include:Â Â
November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. This is a time to support those who suffer from epilepsy and seizures and educate others.Â
If you are interested in learning more about epilepsy, I would encourage you to investigate the Journal of Issues in Nursing and Neurology.
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