Nora Perez, president, Jamaican Epilepsy Association, holds an information brochure on epilepsy during a Gleaner interview at the Video-EEG Unit at the Andrews Memorial Hospital, St. Andrew.
NORA PEREZ, president, Jamaican Epilepsy Association said that there are many myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and those living with the condition. She is concerned for instance that persons with epilepsy still aren't allowed to hold a driver's licence in Jamaica.
According to Ms. Perez in most developed countries persons who have been seizure-free for six months or more are usually allowed to drive a motor vehicle and it is generally safe for them to do so.
Epilepsy is not due to possession by demons and evil spirits
In the past, many diseases, including epilepsy, were thought to be due to possession of demons. We now understand the true nature of epileptic seizures.
Epilepsy is not a contagious disease
No one can catch epilepsy like you catch a cold. Some types of epilepsy tend to run in families but the majority of persons with epilepsy did not inherit the condition.
Epilepsy is no respecter of persons
Anyone can suffer seizure disorders.
Epileptic seizures will not cause a person to swallow his tongue.
There is no need to put any objects in the mouth to prevent the swallowing of the tongue during a seizure.
What to do during a seizure
Remain calm and ensure that that person having a seizure comes to no harm
If the person is stiffening or jerking, roll him/her to one side so that the tongue falls forward and the extra saliva drains from the mouth, keeping the breathing passages clear.
You should not put any objects in the person's mouth
When the seizure stops, tell the person what just happened to them and if necessary get contact information.
If the seizure lasts for more than 10 minutes, you may need to take the person to a hospital emergency room.
