Epilepsy Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Home care with epilepsy varies with the frequency and type of seizures. It is important to take anticonvulsant medication regularly to prevent seizures.

When a seizure occurs, an observer can use common sense to prevent injuries.

• Cushion the person's head.
• Loosen any tight neckwear.
• Turn the person on his or her side.
• Do not hold the person down or restrain the person.
• Do not place anything in the mouth or try to pry the teeth apart. The person is not in danger of swallowing his or her tongue.
• Observe seizure characteristics-length, type of movements, direction of head or eye turning. These characteristics may help the doctor diagnose the type of seizure.

Medical Treatment

• Drug therapy with anticonvulsants is the mainstay.
• Choice of drug depends on several factors including the frequency and severity of the seizures as well as the person's age, overall health, and medical history.
• An accurate diagnosis of the type of epilepsy is critical for choosing the best treatment.