National Epilepsy Week 24th - 30th May 2021
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and causes recurring seizures or fits in people. Due to an uncontrolled increase of excess electrical activity in the brain interfering with the normal functions, this causes a short interruption to the relay of messages in the brain.
Who’s affected?
Approximately 500,000 people in the England are diagnosed with epilepsy, affecting people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly.
What can be done to help?
Learning to recognise the symptoms of a seizure is a great place to start helping those affected, as well as knowing what to do when a seizure occurs to minimise the harm done to both the person and those around them. You can also look into lobbying for more support for those affected by epilepsy, so they can get the treatment and care they deserve.
All in all, epilepsy is a condition affecting more people than you might think, and by knowing the early warning signs and what to do when a seizure occurs can make a big difference helping those affected by the chronic condition.
Where can I get support?
Epilepsy Action
Epilepsy Action is a charity that improves the lives of everyone affected by epilepsy. They offer Advice and information on everything you need to know about living with epilepsy and their Virtual groups are a great way of connecting with others who have experiences of epilepsy, in a safe and relaxed environment.
Call the Epilepsy Action helpline 0808 800 5050
Visit their website https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/
Epilepsy Society
The Epilepsy Society is the UK's leading charity for epilepsy research and support.
Call the Epilepsy Society helpline 01494 601 400
Email their helpline helpline@epilepsysociety.org.uk
Visit their website https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/
