Seizure
Alternate Names : Convulsion, Fit, Epilepsy
What can be done to prevent the injury?
By reducing excessive alcohol use, a person decreases his or her risk of seizures. However, if a person with alcoholism stops drinking completely, the risk of withdrawal seizures increases. A sudden withdrawal from certain medicines, such as phenobarbital or diazepam, can also cause seizures. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's prescription for decreasing or stopping a medicine or alcohol.
Keeping blood pressure under control reduces a person's risk of seizures. It also helps prevent stroke, which can lead to seizures. People with epilepsy need to take their medicines as prescribed to lower the risk for seizures.
Protection against head injury is critical for all ages. Following sports safety guidelines for children, adolescents, and adults can prevent some injuries.
Many times, there is no way to prevent epilepsy. Once it is diagnosed, individuals can lower their risk of seizures by:
avoiding excess alcohol
avoiding illegal drugs, especially marijuana and cocaine
getting enough sleep
limiting intake of stimulants such as caffeine
recognizing and avoiding known factors that trigger their own seizures
seeking prompt treatment for fever and illness
taking all medicines as prescribed
|
Previous section
