A SEIZURE CAN TURN
YOUR WORLD
UPSIDE DOWN
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SIGN UPWhat is a breakthrough seizure?
A breakthrough seizure is one that occurs even though you’re taking your daily antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) as directed. Even well-controlled patients can’t predict when a seizure will occur, how long it will last, or if another one is coming.
When does a breakthrough seizure require treatment?
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If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, it may become a medical emergency
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Cluster seizures (seizures coming close together) may require rescue treatment
LET’S TALK…
Has the unpredictability of seizures ever made you feel anxious or out of control?
What may cause a breakthrough seizure?
There are many possible causes, or "triggers," for breakthrough seizures. These include:
Internal triggers
- Emotional stress
- Irregular sleep
- Illness
Medication causes
- AEDs no longer effective
- AEDs not taken as directed
- Skipped dose of AED
- Effectiveness of AEDs reduced by other medicine
External triggers
- Consumption of alcohol
- Use of recreational drugs
- Flashing or flickering lights
- TV or video games
Hormonal changes
- Puberty
- Menses
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
Sometimes the cause of a seizure cannot be determined.
Talk to your healthcare provider about being prepared for seizures
How seizures may impact your life
Emotionally
Epilepsy impacts quality of life. Among people with epilepsy, 34% report mood disorder, 23% anxiety, and 17% major depressive disorder.
Financially
A year-long study found that treatment in the ER may cost as much as $17,126 per episode.
Professionally
Frequent seizures make it difficult to attend work or school. Nearly 40% of people with epilepsy report challenges at work.
The fear of having seizures can be overwhelming, and can lead to a loss of self-confidence.
"Seizure worry" may prevent some people from having a social life or enjoying activities outside the home.
Having a seizure action plan along with an on-hand seizure rescue treatment may help turn your world right-side up again
In one study, only 30% of patients reported having a seizure action plan. Do you have one?
Courtesy of the Epilepsy Foundation
Learn more about Neurelis, the sponsor of Let’s Talk Seizures.