10. Precautions During Treatment
- Remember the names of your medicines
- Take your medicines at regular hours. In case of any side effects unless the circumstances demand, do not change the brand of the medicines.
- The treatment of Epilepsy continues for 3 to 5 years. In certain extraordinary circumstances this treatment could last for a longer period. In case you have forgotten to take a dose of medication once, an attack may recur. In such a case the treatment may have to recommence for a period of 3 to 5 years or more from that day. Therefore, do not forget to take medicines regularly.
- It is necessary for you to have sleep for at least 8 hours. Sleep deprivation and prolonged T V watching can precipitate a distinct type of epilepsy.
- Unless the circumstances demand, do not change the brand of the medicines.
- In case of fever or other medical illness, consult your doctor and take appropriate treatment, however, do not stop the medicines of Epilepsy, without consulting your neurophysician.
- During pregnancy, the medicines should continue. Certain medicines might prove to be harmful during such period, although these should be used under the supervision of a qualified neurophysician.
- Should you have to go out of your city, do not forget to take your medicine box with you. Always inform your family members about the medicines & doses which you are taking.
- Please avoid the advice of your well-wishers to try herbal medicines or to consult unqualified doctors. Please note that proper scientific treatment of Epilepsy is only possible under the able guidance of your neurophysician.
- High fever may cause seizure among the children. In case of fever administer proper treatment and reduce fever by applying cold pads.
11. Epilepsy and Marriage
Social taboos cause hindrances in the way of marriage of a patient, which is why relatives of marrying girl try to hide the disease.This may cause many difficulties after the marriage. It is better to consult your before the marriage.
12. Marriage and Pregnancy
It better to have pregnancy only after the completion of the course of the medicines. If it is not possible to do so, even during the pregnancy, medication could be continued. It necessary to know if the medication for Epilepsy could have any severe or mild adverse effect to an unborn child. However, such effect is negligible in comparison with the effects of epilepsy attack in abstaining from medication
13. Epilepsy and Driving
Driving should be permitted at least 6 months after seizure free period. However it may not be safe to drive in certain situations. In other, countries, traffic rules are very strict.
14. Social Rehabilitation
Social rehabilitation of epilepsy patients is very important such a patient has to face several obstacles and harassment in his job and in the family even after the control of fits. It is our duty to eradicate myths and educate more and more persons in the society.
15. Conclusion
Now-a-days about 70-80% patients of Epilepsy can be cured within three to five years of treatment. It is your solemn duty to eradicate the age old legends and superstitions associated with Epilepsy.
