10 facts about epilepsy

DID YOU KNOW?

1. Epilepsy affects approximately one in every 1,000 Jamaicans. 2. Apart from stiffening and shaking, epileptic seizures include episodes of brief loss of awareness, unusual behaviour or staring. 3. The majority of children with epilepsy have a normal IQ, however, some may have particular learning disabilities. 4. Approximately 75 per cent of children with epilepsy will become seizure-free on medication and most children will outgrow epilepsy. 5. To ensure safety during a seizure, the child should be placed to lie on the side and nothing should be placed in or over the mouth. 6. To prevent injuries or death, children with epilepsy should not swim alone or

climb to high places. 7. Famous people with epilepsy include Vincent van Gogh (artist), Charles Dickens and Agatha Christie (writers), Theodore Roosevelt (US president) and Danny Glover (actor). Source: ww w . D i s a b l e d world.Com. 8. In many countries, persons with epilepsy are allowed to drive once seizure free for a stated period. Jamaican laws prohibit anyone with epilepsy from driving a vehicle. 9. Children with epilepsy can be treated at paediatric clinics in government hospitals. There are specialist clinics at the University Hospital of the West Indies and the Bustamante Hospital for

Children. 10.There is a local epilepsy support organisation, the Jamaican Epilepsy Association. Check out its facebook page at https://www.Facebook. Com/the-jamaicanepilepsy-association262586090051/.