Epilepsy

Epileptic seizures fall into two main categories - petit mal and grand mal.

Recognition:

Petit mal:

• These are temporary absences - the casualty just seems dazed, staring into thin air and not aware of their surroundings.

Grand mal:

• The casualty usually knows just before they will have a grand mal seizure - they just have an instinct.
  
• The casualty tenses up, falls to the ground and experience convulsions.
• Sometimes froth appears at the mouth.
• Occasionally they may become pale if they have trouble breathing.

Treatment:

Petit mal:

• The casualty will naturally recover within a few minutes.

Grand mal:

• Protect the casualty by trying to break their fall and removing dangerous objects from around them.
• If possible try and protect the casualty's head by padding underneath it - a towel or coat would be ideal.
• Monitor the casualty's airway and breathing.
  
• The seizure should subside within a few minutes.
• If the casualty stops breathing be prepared to resuscitate.
  
• The casualty is likely to be very tired and confused after they come out of the seizure.
• Advise the casualty to seek medical attention afterwards.

Modern epilepsy treatment is quite effect and most epileptics have their condition under control.