As National Epilepsy Week comes to an end today, Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu has encouraged residents to continue to support those living with the illness.
During the week, 16 to 24 June 2014, health promoters in and around Gauteng province were embarking on a campaign to raise awareness about epilepsy which is a neurological condition characterised by unusual electrical activity in the brain.
Epilepsy affects 1 out of 100 people in South Africa, with 50 million people living with epilepsy globally. In Gauteng, a total of 36 209 patients are on treatment in the province for this illness.
In addition to receiving medication from our health facilities, these patients are supported with information on how to manage the illness as well as highlighting the importance of honouring appointments for reviews.
MEC Mahlangu urges families and friends of epileptic patients to support them especially when they are having seizures.
Sharing tips on how to manage seizures, MEC Mahlangu said, “Place the patient in a recovery position; do not place anything (spoon or spatula ect) in the mouth; do not try to open the patient’s mouth; maintain airway; assist respiration and give oxygen if available and monitor vital signs every 15 minutes if possible.”
“Some of the triggers that may bring on a seizure include: forgotten or incorrect medication; fever; lack of sleep; stress and excitement; boredom; alcohol and drugs; photosensitivity (flickering lights e.g. a TV screen, rare and well controlled); startle response; illness; hormonal changes; heat and humidity”.
In more than 50 % of cases, the underlying cause of the epilepsy is unknown. In other cases, underlying causes may be as a result from a head injury; birth injury (lack of oxygen during birth, etc); infections (e.g. meningitis, encephalitis); strokes; tumors; alcohol and drug abuse and aging.
“Henceforth, let us show love and support to people with epilepsy and do away with discrimination as a result of any form of illness or condition,” concluded MEC Mahlangu.
For more information please contact:
Head of Communications, Prince Hamnca
Cell: 076 744 8126
