Try to find out as much as you can about your epilepsy so you can understand and learn how to manage it.
Having more awareness can lessen anxiety and concerns by helping you feel more in control. You will be able to take a more active role asking questions and discussing treatment options with your doctor.
A greater understanding of your epilepsy can help you to identify possible patterns, symptoms and seizure triggers. Having the correct information can help dispel myths and make you feel more comfortable talking about epilepsy to others. By educating yourself, you can educate others.
Here are some tools to help you educate others about epilepsy:
Early days of your diagnosis, you may not wish to immediately find out more about your epilepsy. It can be difficult to digest all the information provided while dealing with the news of your new diagnosis.
Once you have a good understanding of your diagnosis, treatment and associated symptoms, you are in a better position to feel empowered to take control over aspects of your epilepsy and necessary lifestyle changes.
What Information Is Needed?
It is important that anyone with epilepsy (whether newly diagnosed or a long term) has current and relevant information about a broad range of things including:
- their type of epilepsy
- possible seizure triggers – seizure triggers are very individual, it is important that you become aware of your triggers (if any) so you can have strategies to avoid or reduce them. Keeping a seizure diary can be one way to identify triggers.
- the possible effects of their seizures, medications and medication side effects
- relevant psychosocial, social and lifestyle effects
- safety considerations – the risks of potential injury and risk of seizure related death
- first aid (for family and friends)
- useful services
- support groups
Learn a bit more at Understanding Epilepsy
Things that can help you make informed choices are:
- Good knowledge and understanding about epilepsy
- Knowledge about any support services available
- Being aware of the right to choose or change doctor and seek second opinions should you wish
- Knowing you have the right to as much information about your diagnosis and treatment as you want
