~ Authored by Dr Pawan Ojha, Senior Consultant-Neurology, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi & Dr Rakesh Lalla, Consultant-Neurology, Fortis Hospital Kalyan ~

Around the world, 14 February is celebrated as Valentine Day. On this day, we show the people we love that we are genuinely appreciative of their actions and their role in our lives. This gratitude and appreciation is most deserved by caregivers, especially those who care for chronic patients suffering from various conditions including Epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a chronic disorder that can affect many aspects of your life. Because you never know when a seizure will occur, many everyday activities like crossing a busy street, or going to the local grocery store can become dangerous. These problems can lead to loss of independence and confidence. Some other complications of Epilepsy may include:

• risk of permanent damage or death due to severe seizures that last more than five minutes (Status Epilepticus)
• risk of recurring seizures without regaining consciousness in between (Status Epilepticus)
• sudden unexplained death in Epilepsy, which affects only about 1% people with Epilepsy

Besides regular doctor visits and following your prescribed treatment plan, here are some things a patient can do to cope:

• Keep a seizure diary to help identify possible triggers
• Wear a medical alert bracelet so people know what to do if you have a seizure and can’t speak
• Teach the people closest to you about seizures and what to do in an emergency
• Seek professional help for symptoms of Depression or Anxiety
• Join a support group for people with seizure disorders
• Take care of your health by eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise

Epilepsy can be different for each person, so the need for care can vary greatly. Some people with Epilepsy do not need any additional care and are capable of living independent lives. Other people with Epilepsy may need a lot of care, some or all of the time. Some people only need supervision when they have had a seizure. Even if they don’t have seizures very often, the need for care during or after a seizure may be urgent – rushing to the hospital, admission, check-ups, etc.

If you have a loved one who has Epilepsy or has to be a caregiver for a patient, below are a few ways you can support them.

• Keep them safe during a seizure
• Call for medical help, or give them first aid or emergency medication
• Stay with them as long as required or see them home safely after a seizure
• Note any pattern or trigger to their seizures, which may help if they don’t recall their episodes
• Help with their routine of taking Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs)
• Go with them to appointments, help them to take notes, or provide descriptions of seizures to their doctor
• Act as a representative or advocate for the person, with their doctors or others involved in their care
• Help them adapt their home or lifestyle to provide a safe living environment

As Epilepsy is a condition that can change over time. The amount of care you need to provide may become more, or less. Your situation could change – you may become less physically able or have your own health needs. It is essential to look after yourself and have some time for yourself. Caregivers often deal with their situation alone and can feel very isolated, which is why, if you feel overwhelmed, reach out to your doctor immediately.