Epilepsy

Definition:

Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder that occurs when nerve cell activity in the brain becomes disrupted, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior and sometimes loss of consciousness.

Symptoms:

• Temporary confusion

• A staring spell

• Uncontrollable jerking movements in the arms and legs

• Loss of consciousness or awareness

• Psychic symptoms

How to treat before seeking medical advice: Seek immediate help if any of the following occurs:

• The seizure lasts more than five minutes

• Breathing or consciousness doesn’t return after the seizure stops

• A second seizure immediately follows

• High fever

• Heat exhaustion

• You’re pregnant

• You have diabetes

• You’ve injured yourself during the seizure