Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases in the world, affecting over 50 million people, the Ministry of Health (MoH) announced on Facebook. The disease can affect people of all ages and is characterized by recurrent seizures that occur suddenly. Those around the person are often frightened by these sudden states in the patient. In most cases, epilepsy is controllable, and in about 70% of patients, treatment allows for a fulfilling life. Awareness and the correct reaction of people around the patient during a seizure are of key importance for their safety, the MoH adds, and points out how an epileptic seizure can be recognized.
Each seizure can proceed differently, but the main symptoms are confusion, staring, loss of consciousness, involuntary muscle movements, and biting the tongue.
Remove objects that could lead to injury, provide a safe space around the person, place a soft object under their head to protect it from impact, gently turn them to the side, and call for emergency medical assistance, the MoH advises. Do not give water or medication to someone having an epileptic seizure, and do not forcibly restrain their movements, the MoH further advises.
Today, the Association of Parents of Children with Epilepsy is organizing a meeting with students at the 112 Stoyan Zaimov Primary School in the capital, and then they will share the problems faced by those affected by the disease with journalists.