Epilepsy (cont.)

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Medical Author:

J Stephen Huff, MD

Coauthor:

Mary Huff, RN

Medical Editor:

Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

James S Cohen, MD

Epilepsy Overview
Epilepsy Causes
Epilepsy Symptoms
When to Seek Medical Care
Exams and Tests
Epilepsy Treatment
Self-Care at Home
Medications
Next Steps
Follow-up
Prevention
Outlook
For More Information
Web Links
Synonyms and Keywords
Authors and Editors
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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.