What You Should Know About Epilepsy

 Ang Katotohanan Tungkol sa Epilepsy

 First Aid for Seizures

 7 Habits of a Responsible Patient

 Epilepsy in the Philippines

1. Maintain a regular and open doctor-patient relationship.
   

   • Keep your doctor's appointments as instructed.

   • Discuss problems regarding treatment and precautions with your doctor thoroughly.

   • If you develop any undesirable reactions to your medications like a rash, drowsiness, imbalance, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, consult your doctor immediately.

   • Prepare your questions regarding your condition and its treatment before seeing your doctor.

   
   
   
2. Take your medications regularly as instructed.
   

   • Stick to the prescribed dose and time of intake.

   • If there are problems, see your doctor first before making any change in the dosage of your medication.

   • Never stop your medication abruptly and without prior consultation with your doctor.

   
   
   
3. Avoid things that can trigger seizures.
   
   • Drugs and alcohol

   • Excessive fatigue

   • Lack of sleep

   • Avoidance of "specific" trigger factors

   • Sudden withdrawal of anticonvulsants

   
   
   
4. Keep a seizure diary.
   

   • If seizures are frequent, listing down the time, duration, dates, type of seizures and precipitating events in a small notebook or seizure diary can help your attending physician decide on the most effective treatment plan for you. Bring the diary every time you have a medical consultation. Careful adjustment of medications and avoidance of trigger factors, can lead to seizure control in most patients.

   
   
   
5. Teach first aid to your family, neighbors, classmates, co-workers or friends so they know what to do in case of a seizure.
   
   
6. Take care of your health, in general.
   

   • Eat a complete and balanced diet.

   • Exercise regularly.

   
   
   

7. Join/Form an epilepsy support group.
   

   • Most people around persons with epilepsy hardly understand their condition nor what they have to go through. Being with a group of persons with epilepsy and their families usually bring about secure and understanding relationships.

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